Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl Recipe

Tangy Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl Recipe for Dreamy Weeknights

Mediterranean flavors burst through this delightful greek chicken gyro bowl that brings street food charm right to your kitchen.

Crisp vegetables and tender marinated meat create a vibrant canvas of taste and texture.

Weeknight dinners demand something quick yet spectacular, and this recipe delivers with minimal effort.

Succulent chicken pieces nestle among fluffy rice, promising a satisfying meal packed with zesty herbs and tangy tzatziki.

Spices dance across each ingredient, telling a story of traditional greek culinary expertise.

Colorful and nourishing, this bowl feels like a personal journey through coastal Greek landscapes.

You’ll find yourself transported with every delectable bite, craving another forkful of this irresistible creation.

Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl That’s Fresh And Filling

  • Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meal: Whip up this Greek chicken gyro bowl in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a delicious, restaurant-style dinner at home.
  • Healthy and Nutritious Delight: Packed with lean protein from chicken, fresh vegetables, and probiotic-rich tzatziki sauce, this bowl offers a balanced and wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on taste.
  • Customizable Culinary Adventure: Easily swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your family's preferences, turning this recipe into a versatile and adaptable dinner option that keeps everyone excited about mealtime.
  • Easy Meal Prep Champion: Marinate chicken ahead of time and prepare components in advance, allowing you to assemble a gourmet-style bowl quickly on hectic weeknights or for meal planning success.

Toppings and Sauce for Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl

Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and flavorful protein that absorbs marinade well, boneless and skinless cuts work best for quick cooking.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Creates rich, tangy flavor base that tenderizes chicken, extra virgin olive oil recommended.
  • Oregano, Garlic Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika: Provides classic Greek-style seasoning blend with deep Mediterranean flavors.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances overall taste and seasoning of the chicken.
Tzatziki Sauce Components:
  • Greek Yogurt: Creamy and thick base for authentic tzatziki sauce, full-fat version provides best texture.
  • Cucumber: Adds fresh, cool crunch and traditional tzatziki character, seedless cucumbers work well.
  • Garlic: Provides sharp, aromatic flavor to sauce, fresh cloves preferred over pre-minced.
  • Lemon Juice, Olive Oil: Brightens sauce and adds smooth consistency.
Bowl Toppings:
  • Rice: Neutral base for serving chicken and vegetables.
  • Cherry Tomatoes, Red Onion, Cucumber, Olives: Fresh vegetables that add color, crunch, and Mediterranean flair.
  • Feta Cheese: Tangy, salty cheese that complements Greek flavor profile.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds bright green color and fresh herb accent to final dish.

Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl Prep Method

Step 1: Prepare Zesty Chicken Marinade

Whip up a flavor-packed marinade by combining ingredients:
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Dried oregano
  • Garlic powder
  • Ground cumin
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Thoroughly coat chicken breasts in the marinade and let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken to Perfection

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown exterior and reaches full doneness.

Allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing into tender strips.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

In a mixing bowl, blend these ingredients:
  • Greek yogurt
  • Grated cucumber
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Minced garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Build Your Flavor-Packed Bowl

Layer cooked rice in serving bowls.

Top with:
  • Sliced chicken
  • Diced cucumber
  • Halved cherry tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Kalamata olives
  • Crumbled feta cheese

Step 5: Finish with Tzatziki Drizzle

Pour the homemade tzatziki sauce generously over the bowl’s contents.

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a final burst of freshness and serve immediately.

Gyro Bowl Assembly Tips With Greek Flair

  • Marinate the chicken overnight to infuse deeper, more robust flavors into every bite, transforming a simple protein into a taste sensation.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally, preventing dryness while guaranteeing perfect, juicy results every time.
  • Squeeze excess moisture from grated cucumber to create a thicker, creamier tzatziki sauce that won't water down your bowl's delicious components.
  • Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to make the dish low-carb, or add extra vegetables for a more nutrient-packed meal that suits different dietary needs.
  • Prepare chicken, tzatziki, and chopped vegetables in advance for quick, convenient assembly during busy weekdays, making healthy eating effortless.

Gyro Chicken Bowls That Stay Fresh on Day Two

  • Store leftover Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Keep tzatziki sauce, chicken, and vegetables in different compartments to maintain optimal texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Warm sliced chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
  • Add fresh parsley and a dollop of tzatziki after reheating to restore the vibrant flavors and appearance of the dish.

Balanced Picks For Gyro Bowl

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko from Greece perfectly complement the zesty chicken and tangy tzatziki, cutting through the rich flavors with bright, refreshing acidity.
  • Serve with Greek Lager: Mythos or Fix beer offers a cool, light accompaniment that balances the herb-infused chicken and provides a classic Mediterranean dining experience.
  • Match with Fresh Herb Lemonade: Homemade mint or basil-infused lemonade delivers a vibrant, non-alcoholic option that echoes the dish's fresh Mediterranean ingredients and cleanses the palate.
  • Create Mediterranean Salad Side: A simple Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta adds extra texture and reinforces the bowl's authentic flavor profile, making the meal more substantial and satisfying.

Chicken Gyro Bowl Mixes

  • Vegetarian Gyro Bowl: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in the same Greek-inspired spices. Add extra roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for protein and texture.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check tzatziki sauce ingredients to maintain dietary restrictions.
  • Low-Carb Mediterranean Bowl: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or mixed greens. Increase protein portions and add more fresh vegetables like spinach and arugula for a nutrient-dense meal.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Version: Incorporate harissa paste into the chicken marinade. Add sliced jalapeños and a spicy chili-infused tzatziki sauce for extra heat and bold flavors.

FAQs

  • What are the key spices used in the chicken marinade?

The key spices include oregano, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, which create a bold and authentic Greek flavor profile for the chicken.

  • Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version while keeping the same marinade and seasoning.

  • How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination is recommended for deeper flavor infusion and more tender meat.

  • Is tzatziki sauce difficult to make at home?

Tzatziki sauce is surprisingly easy to make. It requires simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, and garlic, which can be quickly mixed together in just a few minutes.

Print
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Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl Recipe


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4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Savory Greek chicken gyro bowl brings Mediterranean flavors to your plate with juicy marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki. Zesty herbs and tangy sauce create a perfect balance you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

Herbs and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Base and Accompaniments:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
  • 1/2 cucumber (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Marinade Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon cucumber (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Whisk together a vibrant marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing container.
  2. Immerse chicken breasts thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
  3. Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high temperature. Cook marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches safe cooking point.
  4. Allow chicken to rest briefly, then slice into elegant, uniform strips against the grain.
  5. Prepare tzatziki by grating cucumber and combining with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Layer cooked rice as the foundation in serving bowls, creating a hearty base.
  7. Arrange sliced chicken atop the rice, creating an appetizing centerpiece.
  8. Distribute fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese around the chicken.
  9. Generously drizzle homemade tzatziki sauce over the bowl, ensuring even coverage.
  10. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a bright, aromatic garnish.

Notes

  • Prep chicken ahead by marinating overnight to intensify Mediterranean flavors and tenderize meat thoroughly.
  • Grate cucumber for tzatziki sauce using a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture, ensuring a thick and creamy consistency.
  • For gluten-free option, replace regular rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to maintain low-carb profile and add extra nutrients.
  • Consider grilling vegetables alongside chicken to enhance smoky taste and create a more robust, charred flavor profile in the gyro bowl.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 545
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Daniel Bruns

Daniel Bruns

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe development for home cooks, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and food writing

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations
Focus: Classical and contemporary cooking techniques, Culinary entrepreneurship and kitchen management, Menu development and food cost analysis


Daniel’s story started with flour on his face and a pie in the oven at his grandma’s house. He later sharpened his skills at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.
His goal? Recipes so simple you’ll want to cook every night. When he’s not whipping up one-pan wonders, Daniel’s outside picking herbs, hosting neighborhood cook-offs, or baking chocolate cakes with his kids, messy, sweet, and unforgettable.

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