Indian Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice

Created on January 30th, 2026 at 02:10 pm

A Balanced Bowl Built Around Marinated Chicken and Fresh Mediterranean Elements

Greek chicken souvlaki bowls with tzatziki and rice are designed as a complete, balanced meal that combines marinated grilled chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a creamy yogurt-based sauce. This recipe focuses on contrast and structure, ensuring each component keeps its identity while working together as a cohesive bowl.

The flavors are inspired by classic cooking traditions from Greece, where simple ingredients, herbs, and acidity are used to create dishes that feel both fresh and satisfying.

Why Bowl Meals Work So Well for Home Cooking

Bowl-style meals offer flexibility and control. Each element can be prepared separately and assembled just before serving, making them ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

This format also allows customization. Portions can be adjusted easily, and diners can control how much sauce or vegetables they prefer without altering the core recipe.

Chicken Marinade Structure and Flavor Logic

The chicken marinade uses olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried herbs to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Acid from the lemon breaks down proteins slightly, keeping the chicken juicy during cooking.

Marinating time is important but forgiving. Even a short rest improves flavor, while longer marination deepens it without overpowering the chicken.

Cooking Method for Juicy Souvlaki-Style Chicken

High-heat cooking, whether on a grill pan or outdoor grill, creates caramelization on the surface while sealing in moisture. Cutting the chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.

Allowing the chicken to rest briefly after cooking keeps juices locked in.

Rice as a Neutral Base

Rice serves as a mild, absorbent base that balances the bold flavors of the chicken and sauce. Long-grain rice remains fluffy and separate, preventing heaviness in the bowl.

Cooking the rice simply allows the other components to shine.

Tzatziki Sauce Balance

Tzatziki adds creaminess and brightness. Greek yogurt provides thickness and tang, while cucumber and garlic bring freshness and bite.

Properly draining the cucumber is essential to keep the sauce thick and spoonable rather than watery.

Assembly Logic for Clean Bowls

Each bowl is built in layers: rice first, followed by chicken, vegetables, and sauce. This structure keeps the ingredients distinct while allowing flavors to blend naturally as you eat.

This method also creates visual appeal and easy portion control.

Texture and Finished Bowl Expectations

The finished bowl should include tender, lightly charred chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and cool, creamy sauce. No single element should dominate.

Each bite should feel balanced, fresh, and satisfying.

Time Breakdown

Prep time: 25 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Rice and Bowls

• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated cucumber, drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Grill pan or skillet
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. While the chicken marinates, cook the rice according to package instructions.
5. Grate the cucumber for the tzatziki and squeeze out excess liquid.
6. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
7. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly charred.
9. Remove the chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
10. Slice the chicken into bite-size pieces.
11. Assemble bowls with rice, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
12. Spoon tzatziki over the top and serve immediately.

Tips for Consistent Results

Cut chicken into even thickness for uniform cooking. Drain cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery sauce. Let cooked chicken rest before slicing to preserve moisture.

For extra flavor, lightly season the rice with salt before assembling bowls.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bowls as a complete meal or set up a build-your-own bowl station for gatherings. Warm pita bread or flatbread makes a great side.

These bowls also pair well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Notes

The chicken can be marinated a day in advance. Tzatziki can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and stored refrigerated. Store components separately for best texture.

Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days when refrigerated.

Nutrition Table (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	510
Carbohydrates	42 g
Protein	38 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	680 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes. Chicken breast works well but cooks faster, so monitor closely to avoid dryness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Store components separately and assemble just before eating for best results.

How thick should tzatziki be?
It should be thick and spoonable. Properly draining the cucumber is the key to correct texture.

Can this be grilled outdoors?
Absolutely. Outdoor grilling adds additional smoky flavor and works very well for this recipe.

What vegetables can I substitute?
Bell peppers, olives, or shredded lettuce can be added without disrupting balance.