Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I unwrapped a warm pita on the vibrant streets of Santorini, the bouquet of fresh herbs and grilled meat instantly transported me to the heart of Greece. Now, I can bring that essence into my home with these delightful Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Each bowl features succulent tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, paired with a medley of crisp vegetables and drizzled with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce. This easy dinner option not only simplifies meal prep but also guarantees a dazzling presentation that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or the highlight of a weekend brunch, these bowls are a crowd-pleaser, loaded with flavor and nutrition. Are you ready to create your own little slice of Greece in the kitchen? Why Choose Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls? Flavor Explosion: Every bite bursts with juicy, marinated chicken and vibrant veggies, taking your taste buds on a Mediterranean adventure. Easy Prep: This recipe requires minimal effort, making dinner a breeze even on busy weeknights. Nutrient-Dense: A wholesome meal packed with protein and fresh ingredients, perfect for keeping you satisfied without the guilt. Versatile Options: Customize to your taste! Swap out proteins or grains easily, or try delicious variations like adding chickpeas for a vegetarian delight. Impressive Presentation: Serve these bowls family-style for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering, ensuring all your guests feel special. Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Ingredients • Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Mediterranean dish! For the Chicken Marinade Chicken Breast – The main protein source providing heartiness and nutrition; feel free to substitute with turkey or shrimp. Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture to the chicken; you can use any light oil if preferred. Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor; fresh juice yields the best results. Garlic – An aromatic element that adds depth to the marinade. Dried Oregano – Infuses Mediterranean flavor; Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. Ground Cumin – This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor; you can swap it with coriander if needed. Paprika – Offers color and subtle smokiness; consider using smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences. For the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; any plain yogurt can work in a pinch. Cucumber – Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with zucchini if unavailable. Dill and Mint – Fresh herbs provide aromatic qualities; dried herbs or alternatives like basil work well too. For the Bowl Assembly Brown Rice or Quinoa – A hearty serving base; any grain or even lettuce can be used as a substitute. Cherry Tomatoes and Red Onion – Provide color and freshness; feel free to include other veggies that you love. Kalamata Olives – Adds a salty, briny touch; swap with green olives if you prefer. Feta Cheese – Adds creamy tanginess; omit for a dairy-free version. Red Wine Vinegar – Offers acidity for balance; balsamic vinegar can be a good alternative. Pita Bread – Optional for scooping or serving; you can skip it or choose gluten-free options. Get ready to indulge in the tastes of Greece with these Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls that are sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, allowing the spices to infuse and tenderize the meat for your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Step 2: Grill Chicken Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches about 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Step 3: Prepare Sauce While the chicken is resting, prepare the cucumber yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, chopped mint, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, then cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve. This refreshing sauce will perfectly complement your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Step 4: Assemble Bowls In serving bowls, layer a base of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Next, add a generous serving of sliced cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Strategically place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the vibrant vegetables, creating an enticing presentation that showcases the fresh ingredients of your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Step 5: Add Sauce Drizzle the prepared cucumber yogurt sauce over each assembled bowl, adding that creamy flavor that enhances your meal. For an extra touch of acidity, sprinkle some red wine vinegar atop the ingredients. Optionally, you can drizzle a little remaining olive oil for added richness, elevating the overall taste and harmony in your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Step 6: Serve Garnish the bowls with fresh parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor. Serve your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls immediately, either individually or family-style for a delightful sharing experience. For a complete meal experience, consider serving with warmed pita bread on the side to scoop up the delicious layers of this Mediterranean delight. Variations & Substitutions for Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Get ready to personalize your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with these delightful alternatives and twists that will take your meal to the next level! Protein Swap: Use ground beef or lamb for an authentic gyro flavor! The richness of these meats will add a whole new dimension to your bowls. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely and double the veggies or add chickpeas for a hearty alternative. The chickpeas will not only add protein but also great texture. Grain Variation: Swap brown rice or quinoa for couscous or a delightful mix of grains like barley or farro. Each grain offers a unique flavor and texture that will keep your meals interesting. Zesty Twist: For an extra zing, mix in some feta in the yogurt sauce or lemon zest for a refreshing pop that captures the essence of Greek cuisine so well. Dairy-Free: If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the feta and replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or any nut-based yogurt. Your taste buds won’t even miss it! Heat Level: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick. It’ll add more warmth while still complementing the other flavors beautifully. Herb Alternatives: If fresh dill and mint aren’t on hand, consider using fresh basil or parsley instead. Both can bring a unique flavor profile that still honors the Mediterranean spirit! Veggie Boost: Load up your bowls with more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or roasted peppers. A colorful assortment will ensure every bite feels fresh and rewarding. Feel free to experiment with these variations as you create your delicious Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls, and don’t forget, if you’re eager for more exciting meals, try these Greek Chicken Burgers or our Fiery Chicken Ramen for a delightful twist on dinner! Make Ahead Options These Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and enhance the overall dish. Prepare the cucumber yogurt sauce a day ahead to save time on busy evenings; simply mix the yogurt, cucumber, dill, and mint, then refrigerate it until ready to serve. Additionally, you can pre-cook the brown rice or quinoa and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken gently to retain moisture, layer the components in bowls, and drizzle with the yogurt sauce for delicious results with minimal effort. Expert Tips for Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 1 hour, or even better, overnight for the most flavorful Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls. Grill Prep: Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on it. This leads to better searing and juicier meat. Slicing Technique: Slice the grilled chicken against the grain. This simple step makes each piece more tender and enjoyable. Freshness Counts: Use fresh herbs like dill and mint in your cucumber yogurt sauce for brighter flavors; don’t hesitate to replace dried herbs if necessary. Separate Storage: If you plan to have leftovers, store each component of your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls separately to maintain optimal texture and flavor. What to Serve with Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Elevate your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls into a full Mediterranean feast with these delightful accompaniments! Crispy Pita Chips: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, these add a crunchy texture that complements the bowls beautifully. Tzatziki Sauce: This classic Greek sauce brings a cool, refreshing element that mirrors the flavors in the yogurt sauce. Mediterranean Couscous Salad: Bursting with fresh veggies and herbs, this salad adds a zesty contrast to your hearty gyro bowls. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding a smoky sweetness that balances the spice of the chicken. Wine: A crisp white wine or a light red pairs perfectly with the meal, enhancing the flavors and providing a refreshing sip with each bite. Baklava: This sweet, flaky pastry is a wonderful way to end your meal, offering a delightful contrast to the savory gyro bowls. Explore these pairing ideas to create a memorable dining experience that brings a taste of Greece to your table! Storage Tips for Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Fridge: Store leftover Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: If you want to save time, freeze marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before grilling. Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. The cucumber yogurt sauce can be served cold. Yogurt Sauce: You can prepare the yogurt sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge, ensuring it’s ready to drizzle over your bowls. Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls Recipe FAQs Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! You can freeze marinated chicken for up to 3 months, which is a great meal prep option. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling to ensure even cooking. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge? Store the components of your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keeping the ingredients separate helps maintain their texture and flavor, making for a delicious meal even after a few days. What is the best way to reheat the grilled chicken? To avoid drying out the chicken, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken in short intervals, checking to ensure it doesn’t overcook. What if my cucumber yogurt sauce is too runny? If your cucumber yogurt sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by straining it through a fine mesh sieve for about 30 minutes to remove excess liquid. If the wort is still runny, add a little more Greek yogurt until you reach your desired consistency. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! To make your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls gluten-free, simply omit the pita bread or use a gluten-free alternative. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious Mediterranean dish without worry. What vegetables can I add to my gyro bowls? The more, the merrier! Feel free to customize your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls by adding your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even pickled red onions can add fantastic flavor and texture to your meal. Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls: A Fresh Take on Mediterranean Bliss Delicious Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls featuring marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and a refreshing yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean feast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade1 pound Chicken Breast or turkey or shrimp2 tablespoons Olive Oil any light oil can be used2 tablespoons Lemon Juice fresh juice yields best results3 cloves Garlic minced1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can substitute1 teaspoon Ground Cumin coriander can substitute1 teaspoon Paprika consider smoked paprikato taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce1 cup Greek Yogurt any plain yogurt can work1 medium Cucumber diced2 tablespoons Dill fresh, chopped2 tablespoons Mint fresh, choppedto taste SaltFor the Bowl Assembly2 cups Brown Rice or Quinoa any grain or lettuce can substitute1 cup Cherry Tomatoes sliced1 small Red Onion diced1/2 cup Kalamata Olives or green olives1/2 cup Feta Cheese omit for dairy-free2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar balsamic can substitute4 slices Pita Bread optional, gluten-free options available Equipment grillMixing bowlCutting BoardKnifeserving bowls Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.In a medium bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, chopped mint, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined, then refrigerate.In serving bowls, layer a base of brown rice or quinoa. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Place sliced grilled chicken on top.Drizzle cucumber yogurt sauce over each bowl and sprinkle some red wine vinegar. Optionally, drizzle remaining olive oil.Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, optionally with warmed pita bread on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow chicken to marinate for a minimum of 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor. Store components separately for leftovers. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!