Name: Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1½ lbs (680g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (halal); 2 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1½ lemons; 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt; 1 clove roasted garlic; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1–2 tbsp water (to thin for drizzling); 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup diced cucumber; ½ cup shredded lettuce; ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion; ¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Let me introduce you to a must-try delight that’s quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals: the Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta. This dish masterfully combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in bright lemon and fragrant oregano, served atop fluffy rice and fresh vegetables, all brought to life with a luscious creamy garlic feta sauce. It’s like having your favorite gyro in a bowl, packed with flavor and texture that will leave you craving every bite.

Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta. Each element is simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a balancing act of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors that dance on your palate.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1½ lbs): Perfect for juicy, tender chicken with plenty of flavor absorption.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Enhances richness and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken.
Lemon juice and zest: Adds bright, zesty freshness that defines Greek cooking.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Imparts bold and aromatic depth to the chicken.
Dried oregano (1½ tsp): Classic herb that gives that unmistakable Mediterranean vibe.
Paprika (1 tsp) and ground cumin (½ tsp): Provide subtle smokiness and warmth to the meat.
Salt (1 tsp) and black pepper (½ tsp): Essential for seasoning and balance.
Plain Greek yogurt (2 tbsp) for marinade: Tenderizes chicken and adds tanginess.
Feta cheese (1 cup, crumbled): The star of the creamy garlic feta sauce with its briny, tangy punch.
Full-fat Greek yogurt (½ cup): Creamy base for the sauce, lending smooth texture.
Roasted garlic clove (1): Adds mellow, sweet garlic flavor to the sauce.
Additional olive oil (1 tbsp) and lemon juice (1 tbsp) for sauce: Balance richness and acidity.
Water (1–2 tbsp): Thins the sauce to perfect drizzling consistency.
Cooked basmati or jasmine rice (2 cups): Light and fluffy, an ideal foundation for the bowl.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
Diced cucumber (1 cup): Cool, crisp freshness to contrast the warm chicken.
Shredded lettuce (½ cup): Adds a delicate crunch and vibrant green.
Thinly sliced red onion (¼ cup): Sharpness that brightens the dish.
Kalamata olives (¼ cup, sliced): Salty, tangy notes for complexity.
Fresh parsley: For garnish and herbal lift.

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt in a bowl. This marinade is the magic that infuses the chicken with bright citrus and earthy spices. Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly so every bite is full of flavor. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, a 4-hour marination deepens the taste beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or a pan over medium-high heat. Cook your marinated chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until it’s golden and perfectly cooked through. Using a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) ensures juiciness without dryness. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices, then slice into strips that are perfect for layering on your bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Feta

With a blender or food processor, combine crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, roasted garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until you get a smooth, creamy sauce. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to loosen it up so you can drizzle it beautifully over the rice bowl. This sauce is a luscious, savory finish that takes the dish up several notches.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the warm basmati or jasmine rice into serving bowls. Artfully arrange cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, shredded lettuce, red onion, and kalamata olives over the rice. Nestle the sliced gyro chicken on top, and then drizzle generously with your creamy garlic feta sauce. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten the presentation and add fresh herbal notes.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch to sprinkle on your bowl, lending herbal brightness and a pop of green. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sumac or a dash of crushed red pepper for subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or flatbreads, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives dressed in olive oil and vinegar is a fresh, crunchy companion that keeps the meal light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests, serve the Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta in rustic bowls with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus. You can also turn it into a wrap by placing the ingredients in warm pita for a handheld version that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken tender and the rice fresh, store the sauce separately and add it when you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

While the components freeze well individually, it’s best to freeze the cooked chicken and the rice separately for up to 2 months. The creamy garlic feta sauce is delicate and better made fresh, so avoid freezing it to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist. Once heated, drizzle the creamy garlic feta sauce on top for that irresistible finish. Avoid reheating the sauce itself to preserve its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful not to overcook as they can dry out faster than thighs.

How can I make the creamy garlic feta sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it without pita or use gluten-free pita.

Can I substitute the rice for another grain?

Definitely! Quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice all make excellent bases and bring their own texture and nutrition.

What can I do if I don’t have roasted garlic?

If roasted garlic isn’t handy, you can use raw minced garlic but reduce the amount since it’s more pungent. Alternatively, lightly sauté the garlic until golden to mellow its flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the Greek Chicken Gyro Rice Bowl with Creamy Garlic Feta. It’s a wonderful balance of fresh, tangy, creamy, and savory flavors all in one hearty bowl. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this recipe promises easy preparation with impressive results. Go ahead and whip this up — your tastebuds will thank you!