Mediterranean Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Tzatziki
This bowl is a deconstructed version of the beloved Greek gyro — marinated lemon-oregano chicken, cool tzatziki, and vibrant veggies layered over a fluffy rice or quinoa base. It’s fresh, filling, and incredibly flavorful with the perfect balance of zesty, creamy, and herby notes.
⏳ Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken
1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika (for a warm, earthy flavor)
For the Tzatziki Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and excess liquid squeezed out
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl
2 cups cooked rice, lemon rice, or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Optional: chopped parsley or mint for garnish
ℹ️ Instructions
1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours (in the fridge).
4. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki
1. Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Mix until creamy. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
3. Chill until ready to serve.
3. Assemble the Bowls
1. Add a base of rice or quinoa to each bowl.
2. Arrange grilled chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta on top.
3. Add a generous spoonful of tzatziki in the center.
4. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes & Tips
For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
You can also wrap everything in whole-wheat pita for an authentic gyro experience.
Add roasted chickpeas or grilled peppers for extra protein and texture.
The chicken can be air-fried at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes for a crisp finish.
️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
Greek lemon potatoes or roasted zucchini
Warm pita bread
Refreshing mint lemonade or iced cucumber water
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~500 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 3 g
Calcium: 25% DV