Discover the perfect blend of vibrant Mediterranean flavors in our Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce. Each bowl is a delightful combination of bold, herby chicken, creamy tahini sauce, and fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that can easily be assembled for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just looking for a quick, healthy meal, these bowls are sure to impress.
The appeal of Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls lies not only in their delicious taste but also in their simplicity. With marinated chicken grilled to perfection and colorful toppings, the meal is visually appealing and incredibly nutritious. This recipe features fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, making it a great option for those looking for wholesome yet flavorful food. Plus, the creamy lemon tahini sauce adds a zesty twist that enhances the dish without overwhelming it.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Gyro Bowl
- Flavorsome: The marriage of fresh lemon and tahini with tender chicken provides a taste explosion in every bite.
- Customizable: You can adapt the ingredients according to your preferences or what’s in season.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls are perfect for meal prep; make them ahead of time for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Healthy: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a bounty of veggies, it’s a well-rounded meal.
- Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this dish a go-to for busy weeknights.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the culinary adventure of creating your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce, take a moment to prepare your kitchen. Ensure your workspace is clean and organized, which will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Gather essential tools like a large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken, a grill pan or skillet for cooking, and a whisk for mixing the tahini sauce. Having these tools on hand will help you execute the recipe efficiently.
It’s also a good idea to measure out your ingredients beforehand. This minimizes the guesswork during the preparation. If you’re using fresh herbs, chop them up to enhance the color and flavor of your dishes. Lastly, be sure to have enough serving bowls on hand for assembling the gyro bowls, as they will make the presentation equally as fun as the preparation!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup tahini
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 3–5 tbsp cold water (to thin)
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 cups cooked basmati rice (or substitute with pita-style rice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup sliced Kalamata olives
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade for your chicken. In a spacious bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and all the spices: oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. This marinade is key for infusing flavor into the chicken. Once mixed, add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly with the marinade. For optimal flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes up to 12 hours. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer, you can also use an outdoor grill for an added smoky flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust and is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it juicy and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
Step 3: Make the Tahini Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, it’s the perfect time to whip up your creamy lemon tahini sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt until smooth. Then, gradually add in cold water one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously, until you achieve your desired consistency — it should be smooth and pourable. This sauce is the perfect complement to the gyros, offering a rich creaminess balanced by a tangy lemon flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
With all components ready, it’s time to assemble your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls! Start with a base of cooked basmati rice (or your pita-style rice) in each bowl. Next, layer the sliced chicken on top, followed by fresh toppings such as cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle generously with the lemon tahini sauce and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a side of lemon wedges. These bowls are not only a feast for the stomach but also a delight for the eyes!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, beef, or a plant-based option like tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate roasted bell peppers, shredded carrots, or baby spinach for added nutrition and textures.
- Spices: Change up the spices in the marinade to include smoked paprika or harissa for a unique flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your grill pan is well-preheated to avoid sticking and ensure an even cook.
- If you’re making the tahini sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with extra lemon wedges for those who love a tangy kick.
- Pair with a refreshing Greek salad or a side of tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips
- For a spicier option, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If you prefer softer vegetables, consider roasting your veggies before assembling the bowl.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving
- Protein: 40g per serving
- Sodium: 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be mindful that chicken breasts can dry out more quickly, so be careful not to overcook them.
What can I use in place of tahini?
If tahini is hard to find, you can substitute it with a mixture of almond butter or sunflower seed butter with a little extra lemon juice to mimic the creamy texture and flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled veggies, and it will still be full of flavor and satisfying.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover chicken and tahini sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or skillet before serving.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed journey to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re enjoying them for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and find what suits your taste buds best. We’d love to hear your feedback, so feel free to comment below or share your awesome creations with us!
Print
Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover the perfect blend of vibrant Mediterranean flavors in our Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup tahini
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 3–5 tbsp cold water (to thin)
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 cups cooked basmati rice (or substitute with pita-style rice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup sliced Kalamata olives
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade for your chicken. In a spacious bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and all the spices: oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. This marinade is key for infusing flavor into the chicken. Once mixed, add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly with the marinade. For optimal flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes up to 12 hours. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
- Once the chicken has marinated, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer, you can also use an outdoor grill for an added smoky flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust and is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it juicy and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.
- While the chicken is cooking, it’s the perfect time to whip up your creamy lemon tahini sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt until smooth. Then, gradually add in cold water one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously, until you achieve your desired consistency — it should be smooth and pourable. This sauce is the perfect complement to the gyros, offering a rich creaminess balanced by a tangy lemon flavor.
- With all components ready, it’s time to assemble your Greek Chicken Gyro Bowls! Start with a base of cooked basmati rice (or your pita-style rice) in each bowl. Next, layer the sliced chicken on top, followed by fresh toppings such as cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle generously with the lemon tahini sauce and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a side of lemon wedges. These bowls are not only a feast for the stomach but also a delight for the eyes!
Notes
Ensure your grill pan is well-preheated to avoid sticking and ensure an even cook. If you’re making the tahini sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving
- Sodium: 800mg per serving
- Protein: 40g per serving