Mediterranean Chicken Gyro Bowls with Tzatziki and Feta
This vibrant bowl combines juicy, marinated Greek-style chicken with fluffy rice (or couscous), crisp Mediterranean veggies, tangy feta cheese, and a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. It’s everything you love about a gyro — minus the pita, plus all the nutrition and balance of a power bowl.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cumin
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl Base:
1½ cups cooked basmati rice, brown rice, or couscous
½ tbsp olive oil
Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or pinch of herbs for extra flavor
For the Veggie Mix:
1 cup chopped cucumber
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup kalamata olives, halved
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp chopped parsley
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup grated cucumber
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp fresh or dried dill
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and coat evenly.
Cover and marinate at least 20 minutes (up to 1 hour) in the fridge.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Make the Tzatziki
Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
Stir until creamy and chill until ready to serve.
4. Assemble the Bowls
Start with a base of rice or couscous.
Arrange sliced chicken, cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, and feta.
Add a generous scoop of tzatziki in the center.
Sprinkle parsley and drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice for a finishing touch.
Notes & Tips
Add roasted chickpeas or hummus for extra protein and crunch.
Make it low-carb by swapping rice for cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.
For meal prep: keep tzatziki separate and add just before eating.
Add pita chips or warm naan wedges for a gyro-style twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi, falafel, or chickpeas — it’s delicious with tzatziki!
Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
A: Definitely — but homemade adds a fresher, more authentic flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 480mg