Name: Easy Chicken Gyro Bowls Recipe You’ll Crave
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; Pita chips (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken gyro bowls bring all the bold flavors of traditional Greek gyros into a convenient, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. This recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep, customizable to individual tastes, and packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Unlike traditional gyros, which use pita bread, this bowl version keeps things lighter while maintaining the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Greek yogurt
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Garlic
Oregano
Cumin
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Red onion
Cucumber
Cherry tomatoes
Romaine lettuce
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese
Cooked rice or quinoa
Tzatziki sauce
Fresh dill
Pita chips (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Marinade – In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the Chicken – Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Fresh Ingredients – Chop the red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce. Crumble the feta cheese and slice the Kalamata olives.
Assemble the Bowls – Start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa in each bowl. Top with the sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.
Drizzle with Tzatziki Sauce – Spoon tzatziki sauce over the bowl and garnish with fresh dill for added flavor.
Serve with Pita Chips – For an extra crunch, add some pita chips on the side if desired.

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice or quinoa and use extra lettuce as the base for a gyro salad.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace Greek yogurt in the marinade with coconut yogurt and use a dairy-free tzatziki sauce.
Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas to keep it plant-based.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or overnight for best results)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about a minute until warmed through.
Tzatziki sauce is best stored separately and added fresh to the bowls.

FAQs

How do I make the chicken extra flavorful?

Marinate it overnight for deeper flavor absorption. The yogurt helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and delicious.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Yes, but homemade tzatziki sauce offers a fresher, more authentic taste.

What’s the best type of rice to use?

Basmati rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice works well for this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prep all the ingredients in advance and store them separately for easy assembly throughout the week.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you skip the pita chips or use a gluten-free alternative.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese or dairy-free feta substitutes work well.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Try lamb, beef, or even shrimp for a variation.

How can I add more crunch?

Pita chips, crispy chickpeas, or toasted pine nuts are great additions.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

You can use dried dill, but fresh parsley or mint also adds great flavor.

Can I serve this warm or cold?

Both! Enjoy it warm right after cooking or as a cold meal prep option.

Conclusion

This easy chicken gyro bowl recipe is a game-changer for quick, healthy, and flavorful meals. With its Mediterranean-inspired ingredients and customizable options, it’s perfect for meal prep or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and bring the delicious flavors of Greece right to your table!

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