Meet your new weeknight favorite: the Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl! This vibrant, fresh, and utterly irresistible dish brings together juicy, marinated Greek chicken, creamy tzatziki, crunchy veggies, a zingy ginger tahini drizzle, and pillowy pita in every bite. It’s my personal go-to whenever I crave big flavor with minimal fuss—perfect for busy evenings or inspiring meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Fresh Flavors: The marinated chicken, zesty herbs, and tangy tzatziki come together for a truly memorable bite.
- Vibrant & Colorful: Every bowl bursts with color from fresh veggies and toppings—so appealing, you’ll want to snap a picture!
- Quick & Easy Prep: Minimal hands-on time and oven roasting make this doable on even your busiest nights.
- Customizable for Everyone: Build-your-own bowl style makes it perfect for families and picky eaters alike—or for using what you already have in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into these Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowls! The beauty of this recipe is in its simple, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, each one bringing unique flavors and irresistible textures to the mix. Grab these basics and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal in no time!
- Full-fat plain Greek yogurt: The key to juicy, tender chicken and a creamy marinade that infuses tons of flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and depth to both the marinade and the overall bowl.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Pick your favorite! Thighs are especially juicy, while breasts stay nice and lean.
- Garlic (lots!): Essential for a distinctive Mediterranean aroma and punchy kick.
- Shallots: Offer sweetness and a delicate flavor that brings balance to the marinade.
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a beautiful red hue to the chicken.
- Fresh oregano: A classic Greek herb that gives the chicken its unmistakable herbal lift.
- Chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper: For that savory kick and to tie all the flavors together.
- Persian cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing—perfect crunch in every bite!
- Avocado: Creamy, luscious, and perfect for balancing the tang and spice of the other ingredients.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens everything up and keeps the dish lively.
- Fresh dill: Earthy and citrusy, this herb adds spark to your veggies and sauce.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Salty, tangy, and rich—this is a must for the full Greek experience.
- Tzatziki sauce: Cool, garlicky, and deceptively simple to make or buy—it’s the “secret sauce” that ties everything together!
- Lettuce, peperoncini, onion, tomatoes, pita: For building your bowls and loading up with fresh, vibrant toppings.
- Tahini, fresh ginger, tamari, honey: Together, these create a punchy ginger tahini drizzle you’ll want on everything.
Variations
The beauty of the Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl? It’s endlessly adaptable! Whether you need to accommodate dietary preferences or just want to use up whatever’s in your fridge, here are some tried-and-true ways to make this bowl your own.
- Swap the Protein: Grill up shrimp, salmon, or even falafel for a plant-based twist—don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Go Grain-Based: Try a bed of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or farro instead of lettuce for a hearty power-bowl variation.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use plant-based yogurt and vegan feta, and opt for dairy-free tzatziki for a bowl everyone can enjoy.
- Spice It Up: Add more chili flakes, a dash of cumin, or hot sauce to bring an extra layer of heat if you love things spicy!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, chopped garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, oregano, chili flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Toss in the cubed chicken, making sure every piece gets coated. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature (or overnight in the fridge if you’re planning ahead!)—this is where all the rich, aromatic flavor starts.
Step 2: Roast the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F while the chicken marinates so it’s ready to go. Spread the chicken cubes in a single layer on a lined baking sheet, then roast for about 15 minutes. Give the chicken a toss, then roast another 5–10 minutes, until it’s cooked through and golden. For that irresistible charred edge, switch to broil and cook for another 1–2 minutes—watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Step 3: Prep Fresh Toppings
While the chicken cooks, toss together chopped Persian cucumbers, diced avocado, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This quick salad is bright, tangy, and becomes a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
Step 4: Make the Ginger Tahini Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, grated ginger, grated garlic, tamari, lemon juice, and honey until smooth and creamy. This sauce is a flavor bomb—a little goes a long way and brings so much zing to every bowlful!
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Now comes the fun part! Start with a base of crisp lettuce (or fluffy grains), pile on the hot roasted chicken, add your chopped cucumber-avocado-dill salad, tuck in tomatoes, onions, peperoncini, and scatter over the crumbled feta. Spoon over the cool tzatziki, drizzle generously with ginger tahini, and serve with plenty of fresh pita. This is everything you want in a Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl—every bite is a flavor adventure.
Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl
- Marinate for Max Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the marinade overnight if you have time—the difference in taste and tenderness is amazing!
- Sheet Pan Success: Be sure not to overcrowd the chicken pieces, which helps them roast, not steam, and delivers those beautifully browned edges.
- DIY Tzatziki Shortcut: Store-bought tzatziki works in a pinch, but if you’re making it yourself, use thick, full-fat Greek yogurt and squeeze as much liquid as you can from your cucumbers for ultra-creamy sauce.
- Prep Ahead Magic: Chop veggies, crumbled feta, and make the ginger tahini sauce in advance for super-quick and easy Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowls all week long!
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl
Garnishes
Go wild with toppings! I love finishing each bowl with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill, crumbled feta, and a generous handful of peperoncini for a hint of heat. A swirl of extra tzatziki or a dusting of chili flakes never hurt either—don’t be afraid to get creative and make every bowl as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
Can’t go wrong with warm, fluffy pita on the side—perfect for scooping up every bite (and any leftover sauce). For extra veggie goodness, serve with a traditional Greek salad, lemony roasted potatoes, or a tray of grilled veggies for a totally Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl “mezze style”—arrange chicken, toppings, and sauces on a big platter and let everyone build their own. Or pack everything into jars or meal prep containers for an on-the-go lunch that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. These bowls are also perfect for picnics or casual dinner parties—just make plenty, they disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the chicken, tzatziki, salads, and sauces separate so everything stays fresh and crisp. Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowls will keep well for up to 3–4 days—perfect for easy lunches later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken for longer storage—just let it cool first, then seal in a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready; note that the fresh veggies and sauces are best made fresh for peak flavor and crunch.
Reheating
To reheat the chicken, simply pop it in the microwave or a hot skillet until warmed through. Avoid reheating the veggies and tzatziki; keep those cold and fresh for the best Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl experience!
FAQs
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Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting?
Absolutely! Grilling adds even more smoky flavor to the chicken. Just preheat your grill, cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until fully cooked and nicely charred, and continue building your Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl as directed.
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How spicy is this Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl?
The dish is exactly as spicy as you make it—feel free to add as much or as little chili flakes as you like. If you’re serving kids or heat-shy eaters, just leave the chili flakes out of the marinade and offer them on the side instead.
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What’s the best store-bought tzatziki to use?
Look for tzatziki in the refrigerated dip section of your grocery store, and choose one made with real Greek yogurt and simple ingredients. If you have a local Middle Eastern or Mediterranean shop, theirs are often extra flavorful and fresh.
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Can I make the Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Prep the chicken, sauce, and toppings ahead of time, then assemble just before serving. Keep wet and dry ingredients separate until you’re ready to eat for the freshest bowl possible throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a bowl that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and color, you simply have to try this Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowl. It’s the kind of meal that turns even the busiest Wednesday into something special. Grab those ingredients and dive in—you’re going to love every single bite!
PrintMediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Broiling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls are a delicious and wholesome meal option that brings together marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, creamy tzatziki sauce, and flavorful toppings. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
- Chili flakes, Kosher salt, and black pepper
Toppings:
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 6 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1–2 cup Tzatziki sauce
- Lettuce, peperoncini, onion, tomatoes, and pitas, for serving
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 tsp tamari
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp honey
Ginger Tahini:
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, olive oil, chicken, garlic, shallots, paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat oven to 425°F. Bake chicken for 15 minutes, toss, and bake another 5-10 minutes until cooked through. Broil for 1-2 minutes until charred.
- Prepare the Toppings: Mix cucumbers, avocado, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings based on your preferences.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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