Dinner

Gyro Bowls – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Gyro Bowls – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1¼ pounds pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; ½ teaspoon ground coriander seeds; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, finely grated; ½ teaspoon ground cumin powder; ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1½ teaspoon teaspoons dried oregano; 1 Optional: teaspoon za’atar seasoning; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed; ½ teaspoon grated garlic; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1½ cup cups plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded cucumber; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 Optional: teaspoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 cups cooked brown rice; ¼ cup red onion, finely diced; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered; 1 cup cucumber, diced

Willie Regan August 4, 2025

Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to delicious gyro bowls, the right pairings can elevate your meal beyond just great. Consider serving these bowls with sides like crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs, a refreshing Greek salad, or warm pita bread with some tzatziki for dipping.

If you want something fun, a side of grilled vegetables adds a pop of color and flavor. And let’s not forget about drinks! A chilled glass of lemon-infused iced tea or a robust Greek red wine can complement the aromatic spices beautifully.

Picture this: it’s a warm evening and the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue over your backyard. You’re hosting friends and family, and the aroma of delicious food wafts through the air. Enter the humble yet satisfying gyro bowl—an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave your guests talking long after the last bite.

I was initially skeptical about making gyro bowls. They seemed too fancy for my culinary skill level. But with a few simple ingredients and some tips and tricks, I learned how to create an easy, flavorful dish that wows every time.

What is Gyro Bowls Recipe?

Gyro bowls are a modern twist on the classic Greek gyro. Instead of piling ingredients into pita bread, you create a vibrant bowl filled with sliced meat, a variety of fresh vegetables, and zesty sauces.

The combination of marinated chicken or beef, crisp vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes, and either rice or quinoa forms a nourishing meal. Greek yogurt and tangy tzatziki sauce provide a creamy finish that rounds out each bite. You can mix and match based on your personal tastes, making it as custom as you like.

How Does It Taste Like?

As you dig into a gyro bowl, your palate sings with delight. Each component plays its part: the savory meats are marinated to perfection, the veggies bring crunch and freshness, and the tzatziki adds a cooling effect.

The spices are vibrant without being overwhelming, creating a delightful harmony in each mouthful. The contrasting textures of warm grains and crisp vegetables make it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This?

You’ll love gyro bowls for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile—they can cater to various dietary preferences.

You can easily make them vegetarian by using grilled halloumi or chickpeas. Second, they’re easy to prepare and require minimal cooking. Lastly, they can be made ahead of time, perfect for meal prepping. Trust me, your busy weeknights will thank you.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon ground coriander seeds
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely grated
½ teaspoon ground cumin powder
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
Optional: 1 teaspoon za’atar seasoning

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed
½ teaspoon grated garlic
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cucumber
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Optional: 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

Other Ingredients:

2 cups cooked brown rice
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1 cup cucumber, diced

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, smoked paprika, parsley, coriander, olive oil, garlic, cumin, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the chicken. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, whip up the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until blended, and then set it aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink and has nice grill marks. You want your chicken juicy and tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Now comes the fun part! In bowls, layer the cooked brown rice, grilled chicken, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the tzatziki sauce on top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your gyro bowls immediately. Encourage your guests to mix everything together and dive in. The colors and flavors will entice everyone!

Tips on Making Gyro Bowls Recipe

Don’t Rush the Marinade: The longer you let the chicken marinate, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill and parsley make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, go for fresh instead of dried.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add or swap veggies based on your preference. Avocado, bell peppers, or spinach make wonderful additions.
Make Extra Sauce: The tzatziki is delicious. Make more than you think you’ll need. Everyone loves a little extra sauce!
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and tzatziki a day before. This saves time and lets the flavors develop further.

Nutrition Information

A single serving of these gyro bowls typically contains around:

Calories: 450–500
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on your specific ingredient choices.

How Do You Store This Gyro Bowls Recipe?

Store leftover gyro bowls in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about three days. It’s best to keep the tzatziki separate to keep things fresh.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Gyro Bowls Recipe?

Chickpeas: Substitute grilled or roasted chickpeas for meat. They provide protein and a nice texture.
Quinoa: Swap brown rice with quinoa for an interesting twist. Quinoa adds more protein and has a delightful nuttiness.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Feta Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, try crumbled goat cheese or vegan cheese crumbles.
Different Vegetables: Go adventurous with your veggies! Roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even spicy jalapeños work great.

Conclusion

Gyro bowls are a delightful way to enjoy a taste of Greece right from your kitchen. They are a mix of health, flavor, and creativity, perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal. With the right ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also fills the heart. Whether you stick to the traditional ingredients or customize your bowl to suit your tastes, one thing is for sure: gyro bowls are destined to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Gyro Bowls – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: Greek Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 30 mins

Calories: 450

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Picture this: it's a warm evening and the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue over your backyard. You’re hosting friends and family, and the aroma of delicious food wafts through the air. Enter the humble yet satisfying gyro bowl—an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave your guests talking long after the last bite.