Chicken Gyro Bowls Recipe

There's something truly satisfying about a well-balanced Chicken Gyro Bowl. The combination of juicy, marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, fluffy rice, and a cool, tangy tzatziki sauce makes every bite irresistible. It's a dish that brings the fresh, bold flavors of a classic Greek gyro into a simple, customizable bowl format.

I first discovered these bowls when looking for a way to enjoy the flavors of my favorite Greek takeout without the extra carbs from pita bread. Now, it's a staple in my meal rotation, perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner that everyone loves.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Gyro Bowl

Get ready to indulge in a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that comes together with ease.

First off, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick marinade, you can have dinner on the table in no time.

It's also perfect for meal prep. The individual components store beautifully in the fridge, making it easy to assemble a fresh bowl whenever hunger strikes.

If you're looking for a high-protein, balanced meal, this bowl checks all the boxes. The chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables and tzatziki add fiber and probiotics for a nutritious boost.

Best of all, it's completely customizable. Swap the rice for quinoa, use lettuce for a low-carb option, or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing that classic gyro taste to your bowl.

Chicken thighs are my top choice for this dish because they stay tender and juicy after cooking. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well.

The marinade is what truly transforms the chicken. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a touch of cumin infuses deep Mediterranean flavors into every bite. The longer you marinate, the better the flavor.

For the vegetables, I love using a combination of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. They add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken and tzatziki sauce.

Tzatziki sauce is the star condiment. Made from Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill, it’s cool, creamy, and packed with fresh flavors. You can make it from scratch or use a good-quality store-bought version.

If you’re serving this over rice, I recommend using basmati or jasmine for a light, fluffy base. Want to keep things low-carb? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of fresh greens.

How To Make This Chicken Gyro Bowl

Creating this delicious Chicken Gyro Bowl is easy and straightforward. Let’s break it down step by step.

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

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel. Mix it with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let it chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.

Next, cook the chicken. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.

Meanwhile, prepare your base. If using rice, cook it according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and season lightly with salt and olive oil. If opting for a salad base, chop fresh greens and arrange them in your bowl.

Finally, assemble your bowls. Start with the rice or greens, then add the sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or feta cheese for extra flavor.

Storage Options

These Chicken Gyro Bowls are perfect for meal prep, and each component stores well for easy assembly throughout the week.

Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal.

The tzatziki sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. Stir before using, as the cucumber may release some water over time.

Keep the vegetables separate until ready to serve to maintain their crispness. Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes last 2-3 days when stored properly in a sealed container.

If using rice, store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to adjust based on dietary preferences and what you have on hand.

Want a low-carb option? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or serve everything over a crisp salad base.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas tossed in the same flavorful marinade.

If you love spice, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa to kick up the heat.

Not a fan of tzatziki? Try a lemon tahini sauce instead for a nutty, creamy alternative.

However you choose to customize it, these Chicken Gyro Bowls are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and toppings!

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