Name: Chicken Gyro Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup cooked rice or lettuce (for serving); 1/2 cucumber (diced); 1/2 red onion (sliced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

There's something undeniably satisfying about the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Chicken Gyro Bowl. Imagine tender, marinated chicken nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, drizzled with creamy tzatziki, and topped with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta. This dish delivers all the flavors of your favorite Greek takeout but in a homemade, wholesome bowl.

I first discovered gyro bowls when I was craving the bold, herby flavors of a gyro but wanted something easier to eat on the go. This version has since become a weeknight staple in my home. It's quick, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for meal prep!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Gyro Bowl

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that's equal parts fresh, filling, and flavorful. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this Chicken Gyro Bowl has you covered.

First off, it's easy to prepare. The chicken marinates quickly, and the rest of the ingredients come together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy days.

It's also packed with nutrients. With lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats from the tzatziki and feta, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.

If you're into meal prep, this dish is a game changer. You can prep all the components ahead of time, and when hunger strikes, simply assemble and enjoy.

And let's not forget the incredible flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon, and oregano in the marinade gives the chicken a bold, zesty taste that perfectly complements the cool tzatziki and crisp veggies.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish is in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each element plays a role in making every bite delicious and balanced.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option for this recipe. They stay juicy and absorb the marinade beautifully, but you can use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner cut.

Greek Yogurt: The base for the tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and a tangy taste. Full-fat yogurt will give the best flavor and consistency.

Cucumbers and Tomatoes: These fresh veggies add the perfect crunch and juiciness to the bowl. Use Persian or English cucumbers for the best texture.

Feta Cheese: Salty, creamy, and tangy, feta cheese ties the flavors together. Buy a block and crumble it yourself for the best quality.

Rice or Quinoa: Traditional gyro bowls often use pita, but this version swaps in fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty, gluten-free option.

You'll also need olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, red onion, and dill to complete the dish. A large skillet and a sharp knife will make prep work much easier.

How To Make This Chicken Gyro Bowl

Making this gyro bowl is simple, and most of the work is in the prep. Here's how to do it:

Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Grate a cucumber and squeeze out any excess liquid, then mix it with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit in the fridge while you cook the chicken.

Next, cook the chicken. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Meanwhile, prep the rice and veggies. Cook your rice or quinoa according to the package instructions, and chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.

Finally, assemble the bowls. Start with a scoop of rice, add the sliced chicken on top, then layer on the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and enjoy!

This entire meal comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you're meal prepping, store each component separately in airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge, and the tzatziki sauce is best used within 2-3 days.

For freezing, cooked chicken can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave. Assemble your fresh ingredients when ready to eat for the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some ways to switch things up:

Want a low-carb version? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of greens for a gyro salad.

Prefer a vegetarian option? Use marinated chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese instead of chicken.

Craving extra spice? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for a bit of heat.

For a pita wrap version, skip the rice and serve everything inside warm pita bread for a more traditional gyro experience.

With so many ways to enjoy it, this Chicken Gyro Bowl is a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Try it today and savor the fresh, bold flavors of homemade Greek cuisine!