If you’re craving a meal that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It masterfully combines tender, marinated grilled chicken with crisp veggies, creamy feta, and a luscious, garlicky tahini sauce that just ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this dish feels like a Mediterranean celebration in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each adding its own layer of taste and color to make your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe truly shine. From the juicy chicken marinated in fragrant oregano and paprika to the fresh crunch of cucumber and the creamy tang of feta, every element plays a starring role.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender chicken cubes soak up the marinade beautifully for juicy bites.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps lock in the flavors during marination and cooking.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Brings a bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with savory depth and an aromatic punch.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that adds earthiness and authenticity.
- ½ tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smoky warmth to the marinade.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa: The perfect hearty base for your bowls.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: Brings refreshing crunch and coolness.
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Sharp and slightly sweet for contrast.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, tangy finishing touch that melts in your mouth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens each bite with its lively herbal notes.
- ¼ cup tahini: The base of our silky, nutty tahini garlic sauce.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (for sauce): Adds zest and balances the tahini’s richness.
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced (for sauce): Gives the tahini sauce a savory kick.
- 2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin sauce): Adjusts the sauce to your perfect consistency.
- Salt, to taste (for sauce): Finishes off the tahini sauce with just the right seasoning.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss your cubed chicken breast in this flavorful marinade, making sure every piece is coated well. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to deeply absorb all those Mediterranean vibes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet to medium-high and cook the marinated chicken for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken fully cooked with a nice light char that adds a smoky touch and irresistible texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Tahini Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, prepare your sauce by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and warm water. Keep stirring until smooth and creamy, adjusting water to reach the perfect pourable consistency that will coat your bowl delightfully.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Start with a base of fluffy cooked rice or quinoa. Then layer on the grilled chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, refreshing cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. This layering creates a balance of textures and colors that makes the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle the tahini garlic sauce liberally over your bowl, then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top. These final touches elevate the dish with creamy, tangy, and herbal notes that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these vibrant Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls warm and prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a fast favorite.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a little extra crumbled feta right before serving not only garnishes your bowl beautifully but also enhances the burst of freshness in every bite. A lemon wedge on the side is a lovely touch for those who love an extra splash of brightness.
Side Dishes
Pair your bowls with some warm pita bread or a light Greek salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve with a side of olives or roasted vegetables to add more Mediterranean flair and steal the spotlight at your dining table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these bowls in rustic terracotta dishes or wooden bowls to accentuate that authentic Mediterranean feel. If you’re entertaining, consider a DIY bowl bar where everyone can add their favorite toppings and sauces to customize their Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The chicken and vegetables will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a convenient and tasty option for lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While the chicken can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, it’s best to avoid freezing the fresh veggies and tahini sauce as their textures and flavors might change upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until just heated through to prevent it from drying out. Drizzle with fresh tahini sauce after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a richer flavor to your bowls, though cooking times might be slightly longer. Just marinate and cook them as you would the chicken breasts.
Is tahini garlic sauce very strong in flavor?
The tahini garlic sauce strikes a perfect balance of creamy nuttiness and bright garlic notes. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can reduce the amount or soak the minced garlic in lemon juice beforehand.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using quinoa or rice as the base keeps the dish naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients, like tahini, are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 20 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, feel free to marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for even deeper taste. Just make sure to cover the chicken to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute the tahini with if I’m allergic?
Sunflower seed butter or a creamy Greek yogurt-based garlic sauce can be excellent substitutes that maintain the creamy texture without tahini.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe is a joyful journey through Mediterranean flavors that’s both simple to prepare and so delicious. Once you taste that tender grilled chicken paired with fresh veggies and dreamy tahini sauce, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your kitchen!
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Tahini Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowl recipe offers a delicious, easy-to-make meal combining marinated grilled chicken with fresh vegetables, fluffy rice or quinoa, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy tahini garlic sauce. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner, these bowls burst with Mediterranean flavors and are ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Tahini Garlic Sauce
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin sauce)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken breast and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the pan and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice light char.
- Make the tahini garlic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Assemble the bowls: Start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl. Top evenly with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add finishing touches: Drizzle the prepared tahini garlic sauce over the ingredients. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for added flavor and freshness.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls warm for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular skillet or outdoor grill will work fine.
- Adjust the consistency of the tahini sauce with more or less water to suit your preference.
- Serve with warm pita bread to make it a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
