If you’re looking for a light, high-protein summer meal, this Naked Gyros Bowl is the perfect option. It’s a Greek-inspired, deconstructed version of the classic gyros, made with juicy marinated chicken thighs, fresh crunchy vegetables, and a creamy yoghurt-dill dressing. This Naked Gyros Bowl skips the pita but keeps all the bold Mediterranean flavours, making it low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or a healthy lunch.
This recipe is everything I love: quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and so satisfying without feeling heavy. I often prep the chicken the night before, then throw everything together in under 20 minutes the next day—ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious and nourishing. It’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and packed with over 47g of protein per portion.
Whether you’re enjoying it al fresco in the garden, packing it for a picnic, or serving it for dinner with friends, this Naked Gyros Bowl is the kind of meal that makes healthy eating feel exciting.
What Is ‘Gyros’?
Gyros is one of Greece’s most beloved street foods, made with slices of marinated meat stacked and slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The word gyros means “turn” in Greek, referring to the way the meat rotates as it cooks, becoming beautifully crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Traditionally, gyros is made with pork or chicken (though beef and lamb are sometimes used), and it’s typically served wrapped in warm pita bread with sliced tomato, onion, chips (yes—fries!), and a big spoonful of creamy tzatziki. The flavours are bold, herby, and tangy—everything you’d expect from the Mediterranean. It’s comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
Traditional Gyros vs My Healthy Naked Gyros Bowl
My Naked Gyros Bowl is a lighter, fresher take on this iconic Greek classic. Instead of wrapping the marinated meat in pita, I serve it over a vibrant salad packed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, tangy pickled onions, creamy feta, and briny olives. The chicken is marinated in a spiced Greek yoghurt mix to keep it tender and full of flavour, then air-fried for ease and crispiness without the need for added oil. I top it all off with a herby yoghurt dressing that brings everything together. It’s got all the flavour of traditional gyros, but in a high-protein, low-carb bowl that’s perfect for meal prep, warm days, or whenever you want something delicious without feeling too heavy.
Tips
- Marinate in advance: For the juiciest, most flavourful chicken, let it marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The yoghurt tenderises the meat while the herbs and spices soak in beautifully.
- Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier than breast and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breast—but thighs give the most authentic texture.
- Flip the chicken: Don’t forget to flip halfway through cooking in the air fryer to get that golden, crispy finish on both sides.
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside so the meat stays moist.
- Adjust the dressing: Add 1–2 tbsp of water to loosen the dressing to your liking. I like it thick and creamy, but a little water makes it easier to drizzle.
- Add dressing last: If you’re prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
- Bulk it up: Want to make it more filling? Add a handful of cooked quinoa, brown rice, or crispy roasted potatoes for extra fibre and energy.
- Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free Greek-style yoghurt alternative and skip the feta or replace it with a vegan version.
Swaps
Chicken thighs: Chicken breast can be used instead if you prefer leaner meat, but it won’t be as juicy.
Greek yoghurt: Use a dairy-free Greek-style yoghurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
Feta: Omit or use a plant-based feta alternative to make this bowl dairy-free.
Olives: Any olives will work if you can’t find Kalamata, but try to use pitted ones for ease.
Dill: Fresh parsley or mint can be used instead, though the flavour will be different.
Air fryer: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can grill or roast the chicken in the oven at 200°C for about 25–30 minutes.
Storage
Fridge: Store the cooked chicken and salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days. Keep the dressing in a small jar or sealed container. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
Freezer: You can freeze the marinated or cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating. Do not freeze the salad or dressing.
More High Protein Salads
Naked Gyros Bowl
Ingredients
For the chicken marinade
- 100 g 0% fat Greek yoghurt
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp dry oregano
- ½ smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
For the dressing
- 40 g 0% fat Greek Yoghurt
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp dill, finely chopped
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
- 1-2 tbsp water: adjust to taste
Instructions
- Add all the marinade ingredients into a bowl/container and mix.
- Add the chicken thighs and let it rest for 4 hours or overnight.
- Air fryer 15 mins at 200C (preheat), flip half way.
- While the chicken is cooking prepared the dressing: add all the dressing ingredients into a small jar and shake well.
- When the chicken is ready, transfer it onto a chopping board and cut into thin slices.
- While the chicken is cooling down a bit prepare your bowl.
- Add all the chopped, salads ingredients into a large serving bowl (or 2 dishes).
- Add the chicken and then the dressing (add the dressing just before serving).
Video
Notes
- Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs.
- High in protein – over 47g per portion.
- The Greek yoghurt marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
- Air fryer makes it quick and fuss-free.
- Perfect for meal prep – store salad and dressing separately.
- Great for a healthy summer lunch or light dinner.
- To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based yoghurt alternative.