Mediterranean Chicken Souvlaki Hummus Bowl
This Mediterranean Chicken Souvlaki Hummus Bowl is a vibrant, healthy dish packed with grilled marinated chicken skewers (souvlaki), creamy hummus, fresh veggies, herbed rice or grains, and a tangy tzatziki-style drizzle. It’s a satisfying, protein-rich meal that brings together the classic flavors of the Mediterranean in one colorful bowl.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (or up to overnight)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (with marination)
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Bowl Base:
1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous
1 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional: quick-pickled)
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
To Serve:
1 cup classic hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Lemon wedges
Optional Yogurt Sauce (Tzatziki-Style Drizzle):
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1 tbsp chopped cucumber
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Bowl Components
1. Cook your grain of choice (rice, quinoa, or couscous) according to package directions.
2. Chop the vegetables: cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion.
3. If using, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing all the ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
1. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (if using).
2. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
1. Spread a generous scoop of hummus on one side of each bowl.
2. Add a serving of cooked grains beside the hummus.
3. Top with the grilled chicken souvlaki, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta.
4. Drizzle with yogurt sauce (optional) and garnish with fresh herbs.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes:
- You can skip the skewers and simply pan-fry the chicken if preferred.
- Add grilled pita or flatbread slices for a fuller meal.
- Red onions can be soaked in lemon juice or vinegar for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness.
Tips:
Meal prep friendly: Make components ahead (chicken, grains, hummus) and store separately.
Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken overnight.
Make it vegan: Use falafel or grilled tofu in place of chicken.
Customize: Add roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicy and are great for grilling. Use boneless, skinless thighs for best results.
Q: How long does the chicken keep in the fridge?
A: Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Q: What type of hummus is best for this bowl?
A: Classic or garlic hummus works great. For extra flavor, try roasted red pepper or lemon dill hummus.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free grains like rice or certified GF quinoa and check your hummus ingredients.
️ Nutritional Information
Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 620mg