Delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe

Delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe

Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki

• Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For Serving:
  • 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • Feta cheese, crumbled
  • Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Tzatziki Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess moisture removed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill or mint, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions for Preparing Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken souvlaki. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and greater flavor absorption. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours or overnight for more intense flavors.

Step 2: Skewering the Chicken

Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While waiting, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them tightly for even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

When the grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Cook the chicken souvlaki for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The outside should have a nice char, enhancing the flavor.

Instructions for Making Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber

Grate the cucumber using a box grater or food processor. To prevent soggy tzatziki, place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and squeeze out any excess moisture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well-blended.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

For a fresh twist, you can incorporate finely chopped dill or mint into the tzatziki for added flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Assembling the Souvlaki Bowl

1. Prepare the Base: Start with a generous portion of cooked rice or quinoa as your base in each bowl.

2. Add Grilled Chicken: Lay two or three skewers of the grilled chicken souvlaki over the rice/quinoa.

3. Fresh Vegetables: Add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices on one side of the bowl.

4. Olives and Feta: Sprinkle Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese over the fresh vegetables for a burst of flavor.

5. Top with Tzatziki: Generously drizzle the homemade tzatziki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, or serve on the side for dipping.

6. Garnish: Finish with freshly chopped parsley or dill to enhance the aroma and presentation.

Nutritional Benefits of Greek Chicken Souvlaki Bowls

• Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, vital for muscle repair and growth.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, known for their cardiovascular benefits.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions provide essential vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
• Probiotics: Greek yogurt in tzatziki supports gut health with its probiotic content.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or marinated portobello mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian bowl.
• Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the