Name: Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup cucumber, finely grated and squeezed dry; 2 tbsp feta cheese, crumbled; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tsp chili flakes or chili paste (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome dish packed with Mediterranean zest, look no further than the Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta. This bowl is a perfect harmony of juicy, marinated chicken and crisp fresh veggies nestled on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, all brilliantly tied together by a creamy, tangy, and delightfully spicy tzatziki feta sauce that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a colorful, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from the Greek Isles, proving that simple ingredients can create truly spectacular flavors.

Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta is straightforward, yet every component plays an essential role. From the herbs and spices that flavor the chicken to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and color, each ingredient brings a tasty layer to this irresistible dish.

Chicken breasts: The protein centerpiece—slice them thinly for quick, even cooking and perfect texture.
Olive oil: A must for marinating and cooking, adding richness and helping carry the flavors.
Lemon zest and juice: Bright citrus notes that elevate the marinade and the tzatziki sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses a pungent, aromatic kick throughout both chicken and sauce.
Dried oregano: This herb adds that unmistakable Greek vibe with its earthy, slightly bitter taste.
Smoked paprika: A subtle smoky warmth that deepens the flavor profile without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: To season perfectly, enhancing every other ingredient in the bowl.
Cooked rice or quinoa: Your hearty foundation, fluffy and mild, balancing the bold toppings.
Cherry tomatoes: Burst of juiciness and fresh acidity to contrast the richness.
Cucumber: Adds cooling crunch both in the salad and as part of the sauce.
Red onion: Thin slices bring a touch of sharp bite and vibrant color.
Kalamata olives: Salty, briny little treasures that remind you of traditional Greek flavors.
Feta cheese: Crumbled for creamy, tangy bursts throughout the bowl and the sauce.
Greek yogurt: The creamy base of your tzatziki sauce, providing a cool counterpoint to the spicy kick.
Fresh dill: Herbaceous and sweet, perfect for lifting the sauce’s freshness.
Chili flakes or chili paste: The secret ingredient that adds the exciting spicy punch to your tzatziki feta sauce.

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper with the sliced chicken breasts. Let this mixture sit for at least 20 minutes. This marinating process is key to infusing the chicken with layers of bright, herby, and smoky flavors that create the foundation of your gyro bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, and cook the marinated chicken slices for 5 to 7 minutes. Aim for juicy pieces with a slight char for that authentic grilled taste, making sure they’re cooked through but still tender. This step is quick but critical for texture and flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Tzatziki Feta Sauce

In a bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, finely grated and well-drained cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh dill, chili flakes or chili paste, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth. This sauce marries cooling yogurt with the zing of spice and the salty tang of feta, bringing the entire bowl together with its bold personality.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

Start with a generous helping of cooked rice or quinoa as your base. Layer the cooked chicken on top, followed by halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives. Drizzle the spicy tzatziki feta sauce liberally over the bowl and finish with extra crumbled feta if you like. Now you have a picture-perfect, tasty feast that’s ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like extra dill or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of color and an extra layer of fresh aroma. A wedge of lemon on the side invites diners to add a final squeeze of brightness. For a bit more texture, a handful of toasted pine nuts or crushed pita chips can be delightful too.

Side Dishes

This bowl is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with light Greek sides like a simple zucchini salad, lemon potatoes, or a crisp village salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs. Offering warm pita bread on the side is another fantastic way to scoop up any leftover sauce and bring that street-food gyro vibe to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering these ingredients in a mason jar for a pretty, portable lunch option. Or transform this bowl into a wrap by scooping ingredients onto warm pita bread and folding it up for handheld enjoyment. Even serving the chicken and sauce over a bed of roasted vegetables can give this classic dish a delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover grilled chicken, vegetables, and sauce stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This prevents sogginess and helps retain freshness. When you’re ready, reassemble the bowl for a quick and tasty meal.

Freezing

The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce or fresh veggies, as dairy and fresh produce don’t freeze well. Thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain optimal texture before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a pan or microwave until warm. Add fresh veggies and drizzle on leftover or freshly made spicy tzatziki feta sauce just before serving to keep the vibrant flavors and textures intact.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of rice or quinoa?

Absolutely! Couscous, bulgur, or even cauliflower rice would make excellent bases, each bringing their unique texture and flavor to the Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta.

How spicy is the tzatziki feta sauce?

The spice level is adjustable depending on your taste. Start with a teaspoon of chili flakes or a mild chili paste, then add more if you love heat. It provides a gentle warmth that complements rather than overwhelms the cool yogurt and feta.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi cheese, falafel, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version that still pairs beautifully with the spicy tzatziki feta sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa and ensure any added sides or pita bread conform to gluten-free standards.

What’s the best way to grate cucumber for the tzatziki sauce?

Use the coarse side of a box grater, then squeeze the grated cucumber in a clean towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step prevents a watery sauce and keeps it perfectly creamy.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta is one of those dishes that invites you to enjoy every bite and makes for an incredibly satisfying meal any day of the week. Its combination of fresh, tangy, spicy, and savory elements is pure magic. Give this recipe a whirl, and get ready to impress your taste buds and your friends with a colorful, wholesome meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent!