Chicken Tzatziki Bowl
The Chicken Tzatziki Bowl is a fresh and tasty meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice or pita. It’s like a…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Chicken Tzatziki Bowl is a fresh and tasty meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice or pita. It’s like a little trip to the Mediterranean in every bite, with flavors that feel light and satisfying all at once.
I love making this bowl when I want something healthy but fun. The best part is how the tangy tzatziki made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic perfectly balances the savory chicken and the crunchy vegetables. I like to add a squeeze of lemon on top—it just brightens everything up and makes the flavors sing.
This is a great meal to prep ahead, too. I often cook extra chicken and veggies so I can throw together a quick bowl for lunch or dinner during busy days. It feels like a little celebration on my plate without a lot of fuss, and everyone I’ve shared it with always asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I use boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking. You can swap with thighs for juicier meat, or use a plant-based chicken alternative for a vegetarian twist.
Greek yogurt: This makes the tzatziki creamy and tangy. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, strained regular yogurt works well too. For dairy-free, try coconut or almond yogurt.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch and coolness to the bowl and sauce. English cucumber works best because it has fewer seeds and a thin skin.
Spices (oregano & smoked paprika): Oregano gives a classic Mediterranean note, and smoked paprika adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor. If you’re missing smoked paprika, plain paprika or a pinch of cumin can work.
How Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Thick and Flavorful?
Tzatziki is the star sauce here. The secret to creamy, thick tzatziki is removing cucumber moisture and balancing flavors.
- Grate cucumber finely, then squeeze out excess water using a towel—this avoids watery sauce.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best creaminess and tang.
- Add fresh dill and garlic carefully—too much garlic overwhelms; start with less and taste.
- Let it chill for at least 30 minutes so flavors blend beautifully.
Following these tips really lifts the sauce and holds up well alongside grilled chicken and fresh veggies.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or grill pan – perfect for cooking the chicken evenly and getting those nice grill marks.
- Medium saucepan with lid – great for cooking rice without too much fuss.
- Box grater – makes quick work of grating cucumber for the tzatziki sauce.
- Mixing bowls – handy for mixing the sauce and marinating the chicken separately.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing chicken, cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for grilled lamb or beef strips for a richer, heartier flavor that pairs well with tzatziki.
- Add crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra salty tang and creamy texture.
- Include roasted or grilled veggies like bell peppers or eggplant to make the bowl more colorful and filling.
- Mix in fresh mint or parsley to the tzatziki for a brighter, herb-forward twist.
How to Make Chicken Tzatziki Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for cooking chicken)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Tzatziki Bowl takes about 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-18 minutes cooking rice, 15-20 minutes marinating and cooking the chicken, and a few extra minutes to prepare the tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies. It’s a fresh, quick meal perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water and drain. In a medium pot, combine rice and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
Grate half the cucumber and squeeze out extra moisture using a clean towel or paper towel. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour if you have time.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the pan, then cook chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and nicely charred. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
5. Assemble Your Bowl:
Divide the rice between bowls. Place sliced chicken on top, add a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce beside it. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and cucumber slices around the bowl. Garnish with extra dill or parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the tzatziki is cool and fresh. This bowl delivers vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite—enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the tzatziki sauce up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious when served.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken, rice, and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently, and enjoy the tzatziki cold for the best taste.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Something Else?
For a low-carb option, try serving the bowl over cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens. Quinoa or couscous also work well if you want a different grain.
