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James Andrew

Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Greek Chicken
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh preferred
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon coriander
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl Base
  • 2 cups cooked white rice or brown rice
  • 1 cup cucumber sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 –2 cups fresh greens romaine or mixed leaves
For the Tzatziki Sauce
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber finely grated and drained
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Grater (for cucumber)
  • Spoon for mixing sauce
  • Measuring spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until evenly blended. This marinade creates the characteristic gyro flavor profile.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
  1. Place chicken into the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for 2–4 hours. Avoid excessive marination (overnight) as acidity may affect texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
  1. Grate half a cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a cloth or strainer. Combine cucumber with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix until smooth. Chill for best flavor development.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Internal temperature should reach 74°C / 165°F.
  2. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting preserves juices.
Step 5: Prepare Bowl Components
  1. Slice cucumbers, halve tomatoes, thinly slice onions, and wash greens. Ensure all vegetables are fresh and crisp.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls
  1. Start with rice, followed by greens, vegetables, sliced chicken, and generous spoonfuls of tzatziki sauce. Arrange ingredients attractively for visual appeal.

Notes

Nutritional Facts & Total Calories (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 450–550 kcal
  • Protein: 35–45g
  • Carbohydrates: 35–45g
  • Fat: 18–25g
Values vary depending on portions and rice choice.