Chicken Tzatziki Bowl

The Chicken Tzatziki Bowl is a fresh and flavorful meal that's all about juicy grilled chicken, cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, and a mix of crisp veggies and tender grains.…

By Julia • December 10, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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The Chicken Tzatziki Bowl is a fresh and flavorful meal that’s all about juicy grilled chicken, cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, and a mix of crisp veggies and tender grains. It’s a bowl packed with colors and simple Mediterranean-inspired flavors that make it both light and satisfying.

I love how easy this dish comes together, especially when you have some leftover chicken or can grill up a few pieces quickly. The tzatziki sauce, with its yogurt, cucumber, and fresh dill, adds a refreshing zing that makes every bite feel bright and tasty. I often make extra sauce to drizzle on top because it just makes the whole bowl sing.

My favorite way to serve this bowl is with a handful of warm pita on the side and a sprinkle of feta cheese on top. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner when you want something healthy but still really enjoyable. Plus, it always feels like a little getaway to the Mediterranean right in your kitchen!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken breasts: They’re the star for tender, juicy meat. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want extra flavor and richness. Just adjust cooking time a bit since thighs may take longer.

Greek yogurt: This makes the tzatziki creamy and tangy. If you prefer dairy-free, try coconut or almond yogurt, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.

Fresh cucumber: Use it grated for tzatziki and diced for the bowl to add crunch. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and less bitterness.

Fresh dill: Dill adds that classic fresh taste. If you can’t find it, try parsley or mint for a different herbal twist.

Feta or cottage cheese: Feta is a salty, crumbly bonus. Cottage cheese is milder and creamier if you want something lighter.

How Do I Grill Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?

Grilling chicken perfectly is key here and not too hard if you follow a few tips:

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning; it helps the spices stick and creates better grill marks.
• Heat your grill pan or skillet well before putting chicken on — this helps to sear and lock in juices.
• Don’t flip too soon! Let one side cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to develop a nice char.
• Use a meat thermometer if you have one — 165°F (75°C) is the safe cooking temp for chicken.
• Rest the chicken for a few minutes after grilling. This lets juices redistribute and keeps it moist when sliced.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Grill pan or skillet – perfect for getting those nice char marks on the chicken and cooking it evenly.
• Mixing bowls – handy for making the tzatziki sauce and tossing veggies separately.
• Sharp knife – makes slicing chicken and chopping veggies quick and safe.
• Grater – to finely grate cucumber for the tzatziki sauce.
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface to prep all your ingredients safely.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or lamb for a different protein kick that pairs well with the tzatziki.
• Add kalamata olives or roasted red peppers to bring in more Mediterranean flavors and color.
• Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a nuttier texture and extra protein.
• Mix fresh mint or parsley into the tzatziki sauce for a brighter, herbier flavor.

Chicken Tzatziki Bowl

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling chicken)

For the Veggies & Base:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional: pickled)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or cottage cheese
• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup cooked rice or salad greens (base for bowl)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook the chicken along with the tzatziki sauce. Assembly is quick and simple, so plan for around 25 minutes total to have your bowls ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix over both sides of the chicken breasts evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and nicely charred. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.

3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

While the chicken cooks, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, mix well, and chill until ready to serve.

4. Prepare Veggies and Bowl Base:

Put cooked rice or salad greens into bowls. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion on top.

5. Assemble the Bowl:

Add sliced chicken on one side of the bowl, then spoon the tzatziki sauce over or beside it. Sprinkle feta or cottage cheese over the veggies and garnish with chopped dill.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Optionally, serve with lemon wedges and warm pita or flatbread. Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Chicken Tzatziki Bowl!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture.

Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! The tzatziki sauce tastes even better when it has time to chill. Make it up to 1 day in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

What Can I Substitute for Rice or Salad Greens?

You can swap rice or greens with quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. All work well as a base and soak up the flavors nicely.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently, and add fresh tzatziki when serving to keep it from separating.