Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta
This Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta brings all the bold, fresh flavors of a classic gyro into a simple, satisfying bowl. Juicy lemon-marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, fluffy grains, and a creamy feta-spiked tzatziki with a little heat make this meal both comforting and refreshing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for weeknights. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or anytime you want something hearty without feeling heavy, this bowl is balanced, colorful, and packed with Mediterranean flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: 1 1/2 lb (680 g)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Lemon zest: from 1 lemon
Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Dried oregano: 2 teaspoons
Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 3/4 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
For the Bowl Assembly
Cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous: 3 cups
Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
Cucumber: 1 large, diced
Red onion: 1/2 medium, thinly sliced
Kalamata olives: 1/3 cup, sliced (optional)
Feta cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
Fresh dill or parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
For the Spicy Tzatziki Feta Sauce
Plain Greek yogurt: 1 cup
Cucumber: 1/2 cup, finely grated and squeezed dry
Feta cheese: 1/3 cup, crumbled
Fresh dill: 1 1/2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Chili flakes or chili paste: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, to taste
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper: to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.
Cook chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the spicy tzatziki feta by mixing yogurt, grated cucumber, feta, dill, chili flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste the sauce and adjust salt or heat as needed.
Divide cooked grains evenly among serving bowls.
Top each bowl with chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Drizzle generously with spicy tzatziki feta and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Tips
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it tender.
Always squeeze grated cucumber dry to prevent watery sauce.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest tzatziki.
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor.
Cook grains ahead of time for faster assembly.
Slice chicken against the grain for better texture.
Adjust chili flakes gradually to control heat.
Season each bowl component lightly for balanced flavor.
Serve sauce on the side if prepping for later.
Variations
Swap chicken for grilled lamb or beef strips.
Make it vegetarian with roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Add roasted red peppers for sweetness.
Replace dill with mint for a brighter sauce.
Add hummus for extra creaminess.
Use pita chips instead of grains for crunch.
Make the sauce dairy-free using plant-based yogurt and vegan feta.
Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Turn leftovers into gyro wraps the next day.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store chicken, grains, and sauce separately for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use rice or quinoa instead of couscous.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18 to 22 minutes.
How spicy is the tzatziki?
Mild to medium, depending on how much chili you add.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.
What yogurt works best?
Thick plain Greek yogurt gives the best texture.
Can I skip olives?
Absolutely, they’re optional.
What’s the best grain for this bowl?
Quinoa adds protein, while rice keeps it classic.
How do I keep the sauce thick?
Drain cucumber thoroughly and avoid adding extra liquid.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce or skip chili for a mild version.
Nutrition
(Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 480
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 4 g
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl with Spicy Tzatziki Feta is a fresh, filling meal that checks all the boxes: bold flavor, simple prep, and flexible ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, it delivers that classic Mediterranean taste in an easy, modern format you’ll want to make again and again.