If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and delivers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and smoky, the Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture juicy, marinated chicken seared to golden perfection, paired with cool, refreshing cucumber and avocado salad, and topped with velvety Tzatziki and a drizzle of rich tahini. This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a colorful, wholesome experience that invites you to savor each bite with joy and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a delicious celebration of easy, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish, ensuring every spoonful sings with texture and flavor. From the creamy Greek yogurt that tenderizes the chicken to the fresh herbs that brighten the bowl, every component plays an essential role.
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt: Creates a tender, tangy base for the marinade and adds creaminess to the bowl.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Brings richness and helps seal in moisture during cooking.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed: The protein star of the dish, juicy and ready to soak up flavors.
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped: Adds punchy aroma and depth to the marinade and tahini sauce.
- 2 shallots, chopped: Offer a mild, sweet onion flavor that balances smoky spices.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky note that makes the chicken irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano: Brings classic Mediterranean freshness and brightness.
- Chili flakes, Kosher salt, and black pepper: The trio of seasoning that lifts every element and adds a gentle kick.
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped: Crisp and hydrating, perfect for cooling contrast.
- 1 avocado, diced: Creamy texture that adds richness and balances acidity.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Zesty brightness that enhances freshness throughout the bowl.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: Adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with tzatziki.
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese: Salty, tangy finish that elevates the bowl’s flavor profile.
- 1-2 cups Tzatziki sauce: The cool, garlicky star sauce that defines this dish.
- Lettuce, peperoncini, onion, tomatoes, and pitas, for serving: Fresh toppings and accompaniments to customize your bowl.
- 1/2 cup tahini: Used to make a luscious sauce that adds nutty creaminess.
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger: Adds a subtle zing to the tahini sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, grated: Enhances freshness in the tahini dressing.
- 2 teaspoons tamari: Brings umami and depth to the tahini sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances the richness of the tahini with a citrus pop.
- 2 teaspoons honey: Provides a touch of natural sweetness for harmony.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin with a simple but flavorful marinade by combining Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, fresh oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed chicken into this mixture and let it soak up all those vibrant flavors. Even just 15 minutes at room temperature works, but if you have the time, marinate overnight in the fridge for the juiciest, most tender chicken.
Step 2: Roast and Broil the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and spread the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then give them a quick toss to ensure even cooking and roast for another 5 to 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Finish by switching your oven to broil for 1 to 2 minutes to get those irresistible crispy, charred edges that bring smoky flavor and texture contrast.
Step 3: Prepare the Cucumber and Avocado Salad
While the chicken roasts, mix together chopped Persian cucumbers, diced avocado, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This salad adds refreshing crunch and creamy softness that perfectly complements the rich chicken and sauces.
Step 4: Whip Up the Tahini Sauce
In a blender, combine tahini, grated ginger, garlic, tamari, lemon juice, honey, and a splash of water. Blend until silky smooth, adding more water if needed to reach your desired consistency. The tahini sauce offers a nutty, tangy drizzle that ties everything together beautifully in your bowl.
Step 5: Assemble Your Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe
Lay down a bed of fresh lettuce in each bowl, then top with the baked chicken, cucumber and avocado salad, and crumbled feta cheese. Add generous spoonfuls of Tzatziki sauce and finish with a drizzle of the tahini sauce. Don’t forget to add any extras like peperoncini, tomatoes, and warm pita slices on the side for a truly satisfying meal.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes such as thinly sliced red onion, juicy tomato wedges, and tangy peperoncini brings an extra layer of freshness and flavor that makes the bowl shine. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten the plate and make it even more inviting.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this recipe is how generously it stands on its own, but you can serve it alongside warm pita bread for scooping or a simple lemony orzo salad to keep the Mediterranean vibe going strong. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge pairs perfectly here.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this bowl into a vibrant platter spread, laying out every element separately so guests can build their own bowls. Or stuff the chicken, cucumber salad, and sauces into warm pita pockets for a hand-held meal bursting with flavor. These creative presentations make the Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe perfect for casual dine-ins or festive gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken, salad, and sauces separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping components separate helps maintain their best texture — no one wants soggy lettuce! Simply reassemble when ready to enjoy.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. The fresh salad and sauces don’t freeze well, so plan to make those fresh on the day you want to serve the dish again.
Reheating
Reheat the frozen or refrigerated chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the chicken juicy and tender. Add fresh salad, feta, and sauces after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor, making this a great option, especially if you prefer darker meat.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the Greek yogurt and feta for dairy-free alternatives and make sure your Tzatziki sauce fits your needs, or try a cucumber-mint sauce instead.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken anywhere from 15 minutes to overnight. The longer, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Certainly! Marinate the chicken and prepare the tahini sauce one day ahead, and chop the vegetables shortly before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for Persian cucumbers?
If you can’t find Persian cucumbers, regular English cucumbers work well. Just be sure to peel and deseed if they are very large or seedy.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe enough if you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels as fresh as a Mediterranean breeze and comforts like a warm hug. Give it a go—you’ll be bringing a little taste of Greece straight to your table, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
PrintGreek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowl featuring marinated and oven-roasted chicken, fresh cucumber and avocado salad, creamy tzatziki and tahini sauces, and classic Mediterranean toppings. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cucumber & Avocado Salad
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tahini Sauce
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons tamari
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1/4 cup water (plus more to thin sauce)
- Salt, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1–2 cups Tzatziki sauce
- Lettuce, for serving
- Peperoncini, for serving
- Onion, for serving
- Tomatoes, for serving
- Pitas, for serving
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, cubed chicken, chopped garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, fresh oregano, chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Roast the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then toss or flip the pieces and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Switch the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a nice char on the edges. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Cucumber and Avocado Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped Persian cucumbers, diced avocado, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine and set aside.
- Make the Tahini Sauce: Combine tahini, grated ginger, grated garlic, tamari, lemon juice, honey, and 1/4 cup water in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach desired consistency. Season with salt to taste. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, start with a base of fresh lettuce. Top with the roasted chicken, cucumber and avocado salad, crumbled feta cheese, and any additional toppings such as peperoncini, sliced onion, and tomatoes. Add a few dollops of Tzatziki sauce, then drizzle generously with the homemade tahini sauce. Serve with warm pita bread on the side.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but 15 minutes is sufficient for a quick version.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust tahini sauce consistency by adding water gradually for preferred thickness.
- You can substitute chicken thighs or breasts based on preference.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili flakes or serve with hot sauce.
- Tzatziki sauce can be store-bought or homemade depending on time and preference.