Name: Chicken Gyro Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 1/2 cups white rice; 3 cups chicken broth or water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried dill; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced; Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish; Lemon wedges

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If you’re craving all the delicious flavors of a chicken gyro but want a lighter, easier version that’s perfect for any time of day, these Chicken Gyro Bowls are the answer. Packed with juicy grilled chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh, vibrant veggies, each bite feels like a little Mediterranean vacation. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or serving a crowd, these bowls are always a hit. The best part? You can customize them however you like, and they’re just as good served warm or chilled. So grab your ingredients and let’s get to bowl-building!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Gyro Bowls

These Chicken Gyro Bowls are a total game-changer for anyone who loves bold, tangy flavors, but with a twist. Here’s why you’ll adore them:

Quick and Easy: You don’t need to fuss with pita bread or fancy techniques. Just cook the chicken, chop up your veggies, and assemble. That’s it!

Fresh and Flavorful: With vibrant veggies, creamy tzatziki, and perfectly seasoned chicken, every bite is a burst of flavor.

Customizable: Want to add some olives or a sprinkle of feta? Go for it! These bowls are versatile and can be tailored to your tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep: The components store well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and have healthy, delicious lunches or dinners ready to go all week long.

Healthy Yet Satisfying: The combination of lean chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy sauce makes for a filling meal without feeling heavy.

Ingredients

Let’s break it down—these ingredients are simple but full of Mediterranean flavor:

Chicken Breast: The lean protein that will be marinated in bold, savory spices and grilled to perfection.

Greek Yogurt: Used to make the creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce. It adds richness without being too heavy.

Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, the cucumber brings that cool crunch to balance out the warmth of the chicken.

Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes add sweetness and freshness to your bowl.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a little bite and color, plus that sharp, tangy flavor.

Olives: Kalamata olives for that briny, salty punch (optional, but highly recommended!).

Lettuce: Romaine or mixed greens add some freshness and crunch to the base of your bowl.

Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy, garlicky sauce is a must. You can buy it pre-made or make your own with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and dill.

Olive Oil: To marinate the chicken and for drizzling on top of the bowl.

Lemon: For a squeeze of brightness to balance all the flavors.

Garlic and Herbs: Oregano, thyme, and garlic to bring the chicken to life with Mediterranean flavor.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get to making these flavor-packed chicken gyro bowls!

1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight if you have time). This gives the chicken that wonderful Mediterranean flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.

3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water), garlic, lemon juice, dill, and salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. Prepare the Veggies:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your veggies. Slice the tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber, and set them aside. If you’re using olives, pit and slice them as well.

5. Assemble the Bowls:
Start by layering a base of fresh lettuce or mixed greens in each bowl. Add a generous scoop of tzatziki sauce, then top with the grilled chicken, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve your chicken gyro bowls immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 480 (approx.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Gyro Bowls

These chicken gyro bowls are great on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are some serving ideas:

Pita Bread or Flatbreads: Serve alongside some warm pita or flatbread to scoop up the tzatziki sauce and add extra texture.

Greek Salad: A light, tangy Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta makes the perfect side to this dish.

Hummus: A dollop of creamy hummus pairs beautifully with the chicken and veggies.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant are a great addition to these bowls for extra color and nutrients.

Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is the perfect finishing touch to bring all the Mediterranean flavors together.

Pine Nuts or Almonds: Toasted nuts will add a nice crunch and extra flavor if you’re looking to elevate the dish.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make your chicken gyro bowls even more amazing:

Marinate the Chicken Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor. The longer it sits, the more the chicken absorbs the spices.

Make Extra Tzatziki: Tzatziki is a wonderful dipping sauce, so make a little extra and serve it on the side for dipping. You can also use it as a sauce for wraps or sandwiches.

Add Extra Veggies: If you love a veggie-packed meal, feel free to add more options like roasted eggplant, roasted carrots, or even some avocado.

Grill the Chicken: For an even smokier flavor, grill the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of using a skillet.

Meal Prep Tip: Prepare everything ahead of time, and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat. The chicken, veggies, and tzatziki sauce can all be stored in airtight containers for a few days in the fridge.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A1: Yes! Swap the chicken for falafel or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a vegetarian version of these gyro bowls.

Q2: Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make the tzatziki sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q3: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
A3: Absolutely! You can use grilled lamb, beef, or even shrimp in place of the chicken for a different flavor profile.

Q4: Can I use a store-bought tzatziki sauce?
A4: Yes, you can! Store-bought tzatziki works just fine, but making your own adds that fresh, homemade touch that takes the bowl to the next level.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftover chicken, veggies, and tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before serving.

Q6: Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q7: Can I make this dish without grilling the chicken?
A7: Yes! You can pan-sear the chicken or even bake it in the oven. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly to 165°F (75°C).

Q8: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt for the tzatziki sauce?
A8: If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Q9: Can I make this bowl spicy?
A9: Absolutely! Add some chopped jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your chicken gyro bowl a kick.

Q10: Can I add more toppings to the bowl?
A10: Yes! Top your chicken gyro bowls with things like feta cheese, chickpeas, or even a sprinkle of za’atar for a fun, flavorful twist.

Conclusion

Chicken Gyro Bowls are a fun and fresh way to enjoy all the flavors of a gyro in a lighter, customizable form. They’re quick to make, packed with vibrant ingredients, and perfect for everything from a weeknight dinner to meal prepping for the week ahead. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home!