Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Crafting delectable Greek chicken gyros brings pure culinary joy to weeknight dinners.

Soft pita bread cradles marinated meat bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

Zesty herbs and creamy tzatziki create a perfect protein-packed meal.

Weeknight cooking becomes an adventure with these simple yet authentic ingredients.

Tender chicken pieces absorb garlic and oregano for maximum taste.

Quick preparation means you can enjoy restaurant-quality street food without leaving home.

Grab a plate and savor every delicious bite of this Greek classic.

What Makes Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Stand Out

• This Greek chicken gyros recipe is a culinary adventure that'll make your taste buds dance.
• Multiple cooking methods mean you can grill, pan-sear, or bake the chicken, making it super flexible for any kitchen setup.
• Prep can be done ahead of time, and the entire dish comes together in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner gatherings.
• Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and homemade tzatziki, this recipe offers a nutritious twist on traditional fast food that feels indulgent but won't weigh you down.

Ingredients You Need for Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

• Chicken: Lean protein for the main filling of the gyros.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy base for tenderizing chicken.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the marinade.
• Lemon Juice: Provides bright, tangy notes.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth.
• Oregano, Paprika, Cumin: Signature Greek and Mediterranean spices.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy sauce base.
• Cucumber: Adds fresh, cool texture.
• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Smooths the sauce.
• Garlic: Provides sharp flavor.
• Dill: Adds herbal freshness.

• Pita Bread: Soft wrap for holding ingredients.
• Lettuce, Tomatoes, Red Onions: Fresh vegetable toppings.
• Feta Cheese: Optional tangy cheese garnish.

Simple Steps to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Completely coat the chicken in the marinade.

Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though overnight works best for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

Grill Option: Fire up the grill to medium-high heat.

Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked with beautiful char marks.

Skillet Option: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Oven Option: Warm the oven to 400°F.

Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping midway through cooking.

Step 3: Rest and Slice the Chicken

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes.

Slice into thin, mouth-watering strips that will nestle perfectly in your pita.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Tzatziki

• Grated cucumber
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Fresh dill
• Salt
• Pepper

Squeeze out excess moisture from the cucumber.

Mix all ingredients until smooth.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

Warm pita bread in a dry pan or oven.

• Crisp lettuce
• Juicy tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Tender chicken strips

Drizzle with cool tzatziki sauce.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Fold the pita around the fillings and wrap in parchment paper for easy handling.

Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Chicken Gyros

• Let the chicken sit in the yogurt marinade overnight for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness.
• Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water to prevent watery tzatziki sauce and maintain a creamy texture.
• Choose your preferred cooking method based on kitchen equipment and personal preference – each technique delivers delicious results.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked protein without drying out.
• Warm pita bread slightly before assembling to prevent cracking and make folding more flexible and enjoyable.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Chicken Gyros Properly

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Separate tzatziki sauce in another sealed container to prevent sogginess.
• Wrap sliced chicken tightly in freezer-safe bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Tzatziki doesn't freeze well due to cucumber's water content.
• Warm chicken gently in microwave at 50% power for 30-second intervals to prevent drying. Alternatively, reheat in skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to retain moisture.
• Quickly warm pitas in dry skillet or toaster oven for 20-30 seconds to restore softness and prevent cracking when reassembling gyros.

Sides That Go Great with Greek Chicken Gyros

• Savor Mediterranean Flavor Harmony: Perfect Pairings
• Crisp White Wine Complement: Select a chilled, zesty Assyrtiko or Moschofilero from Greece to match the bright, tangy chicken marinade and cool tzatziki sauce.
• Refreshing Greek Salad Side: Toss together cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese with a light olive oil and oregano dressing to balance the rich, grilled chicken flavors.
• Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Arrange hummus, dolmades, kalamata olives, and roasted red pepper dip alongside the gyros to create a vibrant, textured dining experience that highlights traditional Greek appetizer culture.
• Summer Citrus Beverage Boost: Mix a light, sparkling lemonade with fresh mint and a hint of honey to cut through the creamy tzatziki and provide a cooling counterpoint to the warm, spiced chicken.

Tasty Twists on Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

• Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Version: Replace pita bread with large lettuce leaves for a lighter, carb-free alternative that keeps the classic Greek chicken flavors intact.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu, using the same Greek-inspired marinade for a plant-based protein option.
• Gluten-Free Gyro Alternative: Use gluten-free corn tortillas or large roasted portobello mushroom caps instead of traditional pita bread to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Meal Prep Friendly Option: Prepare chicken and tzatziki sauce in advance, storing separately in airtight containers for quick assembly during busy weekdays, keeping ingredients fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for the chicken marinade?

The marinade includes Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, which create a flavorful and tenderizing coating for the chicken.

• Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

While the recipe is designed for chicken, you can easily substitute it with pork or lamb, which are traditional meats used in Greek gyros.

• How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, helps keep the meat moist and adds depth of flavor. Be careful not to overcook the chicken by following the recommended cooking times.

• Is tzatziki sauce easy to make at home?

Yes, tzatziki is simple to prepare. You’ll need Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. The key is to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber to keep the sauce thick and creamy.

Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki (30-Minutes) Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Homemade Greek Chicken Gyros sparkle with Mediterranean charm, bringing authentic street food flavors straight to your kitchen. Crispy seasoned chicken, creamy tzatziki, and warm pita create a quick, delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Marinade Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Tzatziki and Accompaniments:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) Greek yogurt
• 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) cucumber (grated and drained)
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4–6 pieces Greek pita bread
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) cherry tomatoes (diced)
• 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) red onion (thinly sliced)
• 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) shredded lettuce
• 0.25 cup (60 milliliters) crumbled feta cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Craft a robust marinade by blending yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a mixing vessel.
2. Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, ensuring thorough coating. Seal and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. Select preferred cooking method: grill at medium-high heat (5-6 minutes per side), pan-sear over medium-high heat (5-7 minutes per side), or bake in 400°F oven (20-25 minutes), until chicken reaches golden exterior and internal doneness.
4. After cooking, allow chicken to rest momentarily, then slice into delicate strips across the grain.
5. Prepare tzatziki by grating cucumber and extracting excess moisture using paper towel. Combine cucumber with yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.
6. Whisk tzatziki ingredients until achieving smooth consistency, then refrigerate until serving moment.
7. Gently warm pita bread in dry skillet or oven until slightly pliable.
8. Assemble gyros by layering lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and chicken strips. Generously drizzle with tzatziki sauce and optionally sprinkle feta cheese.
9. Carefully fold pita around fillings, wrapping in parchment paper for convenient handling and mess prevention.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight to enhance deep, robust flavors and tenderize the meat for maximum juiciness.
• Squeeze cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery tzatziki, ensuring a thick, creamy sauce consistency.
• Use high-heat cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing to develop delicious caramelized exterior and preserve chicken’s moisture.
• Customize recipe for dietary needs by substituting gluten-free pita, using plant-based yogurt, or swapping chicken with tofu or grilled vegetables for vegetarian options.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg