Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Flavorful Chicken Gyro Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce bring all the fresh, savory, and vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine into one healthy and satisfying dish. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken thighs are paired with a medley of crisp vegetables and grains, all topped off with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. The balance of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and the creamy tang of the tzatziki makes this a complete and delicious meal. It’s perfect for meal prepping, a quick weeknight dinner, or serving at your next gathering!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

• 1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs or breasts. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for more flavor).
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the tzatziki sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess moisture squeezed out), minced garlic, fresh dill or mint (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well mixed. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the bowls: Start by adding a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or another grain to your bowls (if using). Arrange the sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion on top.
5. Top with tzatziki: Spoon the tzatziki sauce generously over the chicken and veggies. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken gyro bowls immediately, and enjoy with extra tzatziki on the side if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian bowl.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or tzatziki sauce for some heat.
• Grain-Free: Skip the rice or quinoa and serve the chicken and veggies over leafy greens like spinach or mixed greens for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the chicken gyro bowls and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken will stay flavorful, and the tzatziki will remain refreshing.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a stovetop pan over medium heat until warmed through. It’s best to enjoy the tzatziki sauce cold, so don’t reheat it.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using chicken breasts, make sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the tzatziki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually develop more as it sits.

What if I don’t have fresh dill or mint?

If you don’t have fresh dill or mint, you can omit it or use dried herbs (though fresh is recommended for the best flavor).

Can I use a store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Absolutely! While homemade tzatziki is always best, you can save time by using a store-bought version if you’re short on time.

Can I add more vegetables to the bowls?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or avocado for more flavor and texture.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you skip any gluten-containing grains and serve the chicken with vegetables or a gluten-free grain.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours (or overnight) before cooking. You can also add lemon zest to the marinade for extra citrusy brightness.

Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?

Yes, grilling the chicken will add even more flavor and a lovely char. Just ensure the grill is preheated, and cook the chicken as directed.

Can I use yogurt other than Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?

Greek yogurt is recommended for its thick texture and tang, but you can use regular yogurt in a pinch. Just be aware that the sauce may be thinner.

What do I serve with the bowls?

These bowls are great on their own, but you can serve them with pita bread, olives, or a simple Greek salad for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

Flavorful Chicken Gyro Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce offer a healthy, balanced meal that’s full of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The tender, seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, making each bite delightful. This dish is easily customizable and perfect for meal prepping or serving at a family dinner. Enjoy the delicious, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home!

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