Name: Delicious Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls in Just 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded leftover rotisserie or minimally spiced chicken); 1 medium pointed red pepper (diced, or substitute with any bell pepper); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 ts paprika; 1 ts chili powder; 1 ts oregano; 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh); 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin); 2 cups mixed vegetables (like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, etc.); 1 handful fresh herbs (like basil or parsley); 1 cup olives; 1/2 cup feta cheese (omit for dairy-free); 1/2 cup yogurt (Greek for thicker consistency)

While scavenging my fridge one evening, a culinary spark lit up as I eyed my leftover chicken. That’s when I concocted these Quick & Healthy Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls, a vibrant blend of Mediterranean goodness. In just under 20 minutes, you can transform yesterday’s dinner into a crowd-pleasing meal! These bowls not only turn the mundane into something exciting, appealing to both your tastebuds and your waistline, but they also require minimal prep. Whether it’s a low-carb dinner or a refreshing lunch, you’ll love how adaptable and flavorful they are. So, what unique ingredients will you toss into your gyros bowl tonight?

Why You’ll Love Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these delicious bowls in under 20 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, letting you clean out the fridge while being creative.
Healthy & Delicious: This recipe emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients while keeping it low-carb, perfect for health-conscious diners.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bowls are great for family dinners or meal prepping for the week—everyone will love the flavors!
Mediterranean Flair: With its vibrant mix of herbs, garlic, and olives, you’ll feel transported to a sunny Greek taverna, all from your kitchen.
Plus, if you’re hungry for more Mediterranean flavors, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf or Sweet Chili Chicken for a delightful twist!

Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Cooked Chicken – Great for protein; any leftover rotisserie or minimally spiced chicken works well.
• Pointed Red Pepper – Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with any variety of bell pepper or jalapeño.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor depth; fresh minced garlic is preferred for maximum impact.
• Paprika, Chili Powder, Oregano – Adds spice and earthiness; adjust based on your personal taste preferences.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors; fresh juice is recommended for the best results.
• Olive Oil – Provides healthy fats and moisture; opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

For the Salad
• Vegetables (Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Red Onion, etc.) – Contributes freshness and crunch; use whatever vegetables are on hand, like zucchini or avocados.
• Fresh Herbs (Basil, Parsley) – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh is ideal, but dried works in a pinch.
• Olives – Adds saltiness and tang; any variety of olives works well here.
• Feta Cheese – Introduces creaminess and brininess; omit for a dairy-free version.

Optional for Sauce
• Yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt gives you a thicker sauce if desired.

With these ingredients ready, you’re on your way to crafting delightful Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls that are healthy, colorful, and super satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by shredding your leftover cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a non-stick skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken along with diced pointed red pepper, minced garlic, paprika, chili powder, oregano, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the pepper softens slightly, giving off a warm aroma.

Step 2: Chop Veggies
While the chicken mixture is cooking, grab a cutting board and chop up your available vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Place the chopped vegetables in a mixing bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss them gently to combine, allowing the fresh flavors to meld together, creating a vibrant salad that will complement your Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls.

Step 3: Assemble Bowls
Now that both your chicken and salad are ready, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Take two serving bowls and divide the stir-fried chicken mixture on one side of each bowl, followed by a generous portion of the vegetable salad on the other side. Finish by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese and a handful of olives on top, adding texture and a delightful burst of flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Optional Garlic Yogurt Sauce
For a delicious finishing touch, whisk together a few tablespoons of yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This optional garlic yogurt sauce adds creaminess and tang, perfect for drizzling on top of your Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls or serving on the side for dipping. Enjoy the flavorful blend of textures and tastes!

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls

Fridge: Store assembled bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To preserve crunchiness, keep the salad and chicken separate until ready to serve.

Freezer: If freezing, store the chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating for best results.

Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warm. For veggies, if stored separately, briefly sauté just until heated through to retain crispness.

Assemble Freshly: For the best texture, consider assembling your Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls just before serving rather than mixing everything beforehand.

What to Serve with Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls

Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance those vibrant flavors packed in each bowl.

Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, tangy yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch, perfect for drizzling over your gyros bowls. It complements the bold spices beautifully!
Quinoa Salad: A nutty, nutrient-rich addition, quinoa salad offers texture and substance while keeping the meal light and healthy. Toss it with lemon juice and fresh herbs for extra flair.
Grilled Pita Chips: These crunchy chips provide a delightful contrast to the soft chicken and veggies. Serve them on the side for dipping into that luscious garlic yogurt sauce.
Feta Deviled Eggs: Creamy and savory, these little bites are a fantastic finger food option that pairs well with Mediterranean dishes, adding to the overall flavor adventure.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful blend of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, roasted to perfection, brings sweetness and depth to your meal, perfectly balancing the savory notes of the gyros.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a refreshing drink! A glass of homemade lemonade or unsweetened iced tea makes an excellent pairing, cutting through the richness of the dish.

Tips for the Best Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls

• Crisp Vegetables: Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain their fresh crunch; lightly stir-fry them just enough to warm through.
• Flavorful Chicken: For enhanced taste, use any leftover rotisserie chicken you have; the seasonings in it can elevate your gyros bowls.
• Customizable Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to play around with vegetables or proteins based on what you have left; creativity is key in making these leftover chicken gyros bowls shine!
• Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh herbs and quality olive oil to really brighten the flavors; these small touches make a big difference in taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free twist, just skip the feta and use a nut-based sauce, like cashew garlic sauce, for creaminess without the dairy.

Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls Variations

Feel free to get creative with your leftover chicken gyros bowls and let your taste buds lead the way!

Dairy-Free: Omit feta cheese and use a creamy cashew garlic sauce for a flavorful twist.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a hearty plant-based option.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your bowls a fiery edge.
Grain Base: Serve on a bed of quinoa or farro instead of just salad for added texture and nutrition.
Herb Explosion: Experiment with different herbs; fresh mint or dill can elevate the Mediterranean flavor.
Vegan Delight: Replace yogurt with coconut yogurt for a refreshing, creamy vegan sauce.
Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for an extra crunch that adds a delightful dimension.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate grilled zucchini or roasted asparagus to pack in more nutrients and flavors.

Don’t forget to enjoy leftover chicken in other delightful recipes, like Cowboy Butter Chicken or a hearty bowl of Crack Chicken Penne!

Make Ahead Options

These Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shred the chicken and stir-fry it with spices and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, chop your vegetables and mix them with olive oil and salt as well, which can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead—this maintains their freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the chicken mixture in a skillet, assemble the bowls with the prepped veggies, and finish with feta and olives. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort for busy weeknights!

Leftover Chicken Gyros Bowls Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully. Rotisserie chicken is particularly great as it’s already seasoned and adds great flavor. Just make sure it hasn’t been sitting around for too long!

How should I store my leftover chicken gyros bowls?
To keep your bowls fresh, store the assembled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to keep the salad separate from the chicken until it’s time to eat, preserving that satisfying crunch!

Can I freeze leftover chicken gyros bowls?
Yes, you can! For best results, place the chicken and vegetables in separate airtight containers and freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat the chicken in a skillet until warm. Sauté the veggies briefly to maintain their crispness.

What can I substitute if I have allergies?
If anyone’s sensitive to dairy, simply omit the feta cheese and consider a creamy cashew garlic sauce for a dairy-free alternative. You can also replace certain veggies based on personal allergies—zucchini or carrots work just as well!

What should I do if my chicken ends up dry when reheating?
Very commonly, dry chicken can happen when reheating. To combat this, drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken before warming it in a skillet or microwave. This adds moisture back and enhances the flavor!

Is there a way to customize the recipe further?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand—perhaps some leftover roasted veggies. Also, if you’re looking for more protein options, try chickpeas or turkey as substitutes for chicken for an exciting variation!