If you’re craving a burst of Mediterranean sunshine wrapped in a warm pita, you have to try my Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe. This dish marries juicy, tender marinated chicken thighs with the cool, creamy tang of homemade tzatziki, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. It’s fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an absolute go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Once you master this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite ways to enjoy Greek-inspired cuisine at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of a great Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays its part in layering flavor, texture, and that unmistakable Mediterranean freshness that makes this dish a standout.
- 2 lb / 1 kg chicken thigh fillets, boneless skinless: These provide juicy, flavorful meat that remains tender after grilling or pan-frying.
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (~3 tsp): Garlic adds a fragrant punch essential to the marinade and tzatziki.
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or red wine or apple cider vinegar): Vinegar brightens the marinade and tenderizes the chicken.
- 3 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice helps balance richness with zesty acidity.
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil adds smoothness and helps lock in moisture during cooking.
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt, preferably full fat: Greek yogurt enriches the marinade with creaminess and subtle tang.
- 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano: Classic oregano brings that unmistakable Greek herb flavor.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the marinade.
- 2 cucumbers, grated and squeezed dry: Provides fresh crunch and moisture for homemade tzatziki.
- 1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt, preferably full fat: Base for the creamy tzatziki sauce.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the tzatziki with citrus zing.
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more for richness): Smooths and enriches tzatziki texture.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds a gentle garlic kick to the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: Subtle spice for the sauce.
- 3 tomatoes, deseeded and diced: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color to the gyro topping.
- 3 cucumbers, diced: Fresh crunch complementing the tomatoes.
- 1/2 red Spanish onion, finely chopped: Offers mild sharpness and texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional): Adds herbal brightness and extra freshness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the salad mix.
- 4 to 6 pita breads or flatbreads: The warm, soft vehicle that holds all the delicious ingredients together.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt, oregano, salt, and pepper in a ziplock bag or bowl. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse that tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with classic Greek aromas. Add the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the meat. For best results, refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours, but ideally up to 12 hours. This wait time allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites every time.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare your tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumbers, then squeeze out as much moisture as you can – this step is key to keeping the sauce thick and creamy rather than watery. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the drained cucumber. Mix until smooth and chilling it until serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This creamy tzatziki will be the cool, refreshing complement to the warm, savory chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato-Cucumber Salad
Dice the seeded tomatoes and cucumbers, then finely chop the red onion. Toss these with the fresh parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This simple salad adds a crisp, vibrant contrast to the gyros and enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has a nice charred edge. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. This resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender and moist.
Step 5: Assemble Your Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki
Warm your pita breads slightly so they become soft and pliable. Lay down a generous amount of sliced chicken in the center of each pita, spoon over a good dollop of your homemade tzatziki, and top with the fresh tomato-cucumber salad. Fold carefully or roll up tightly to enjoy every delightful bite. You’ll find that the balance of warm chicken, cool sauce, and crunchy veggies wrapped in soft bread is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or extra fresh oregano can add an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Lemon wedges on the side invite your guests to add a splash of brightness, bringing the whole dish to life.
Side Dishes
Pair these gyros with classic Greek sides like crispy roasted potatoes, a simple Greek salad with olives and feta, or even some warm spanakopita for a truly authentic feast. Each side complements the flavors of the gyros and rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual party, serve everything buffet-style with bowls of sliced chicken, tzatziki, salad, and pita, letting guests build their own gyros. For a more elegant touch, use small pita triangles as bite-sized finger foods and skewer them with toothpicks to keep everything neatly together. Either way, presentation adds to the fun and experience of enjoying this Greek classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken, tzatziki, and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken keeps well for up to 3 days, and the tzatziki remains fresh for about 2 days before the cucumber starts to change texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken slices if you want to save them for later. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing tzatziki or the fresh salad as they lose quality upon thawing.
Reheating
When reheating the chicken, do so gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain moisture and tenderness. Add tzatziki fresh before serving to keep that cool, creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh fillets?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are leaner but can dry out faster, so be careful not to overcook. Marinating well and monitoring cooking time will help keep the breast juicy.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?
You can use regular plain yogurt, but it’s best to strain it through cheesecloth for a thicker consistency to mimic Greek yogurt’s creaminess.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The chicken can marinate anywhere from 2 hours up to 24 hours, but the ideal window is around 3 to 12 hours for the best flavor and texture.
Can I prepare tzatziki in advance?
Yes, tzatziki tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, allowing flavors to meld. Just stir it again before serving.
What if I don’t have pita bread?
You can use flatbreads or even large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. They won’t be quite the same, but still delicious and handy in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe that makes every meal feel like a celebration. The blend of juicy chicken, vibrant salad, and creamy sauce wrapped in warm pita is comfort food at its finest, yet light and fresh enough for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and soon you’ll be making it again and again, sharing with friends and family who will undoubtedly ask for seconds. You’ve found a new favorite right here!
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Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzaziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes plus marinating time (2-12 hours recommended)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe features tender, marinated chicken thigh fillets grilled to perfection and served with fresh homemade tzatziki sauce, diced tomato and cucumber salad, and warm pita bread. A quick and flavorful meal inspired by traditional Greek street food, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. The marinade infuses the chicken with garlic, lemon, oregano, and yogurt, while the creamy tzatziki balances the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Marinade and Chicken
- 2 lb / 1 kg chicken thigh fillets, boneless skinless
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (~ 3 tsp)
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or red wine or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
- 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Tzatziki Sauce
- 2 cucumbers (to make about 1/2 – 3/4 cup grated cucumber after squeezing out juice)
- 1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 3 tomatoes, deseeded and diced
- 3 cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 red Spanish onion, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- 4 to 6 pita breads or flatbreads
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: In a large ziplock bag, combine minced garlic, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Massage the marinade to mix thoroughly. Add the chicken thigh fillets to the bag and massage to ensure all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably 3 hours, ideally up to 12 hours but no longer than 24 hours.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Peel and grate the cucumbers, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. In a bowl, mix the grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the rest of the dish.
- Prepare the Salad: Dice the tomatoes and cucumbers, finely chop the red onion and parsley (if using). Combine all the salad ingredients in a bowl, season with salt and pepper, and toss lightly to mix. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita breads or flatbreads briefly in a dry pan or oven. Spread a generous layer of tzatziki sauce on each pita, add sliced grilled chicken, top with the fresh tomato and cucumber salad, and optionally sprinkle with extra parsley. Fold and serve immediately for a delicious Greek gyro experience.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer intensifies the flavor and tenderness—ideally 12 hours.
- You can use red wine or apple cider vinegar as a substitute for white wine vinegar.
- To keep tzatziki creamy and white, make sure to thoroughly drain the grated cucumber.
- Adjust garlic and lemon juice in the tzatziki to suit your taste preferences.
- For an extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken on an outdoor grill if possible.
- If gluten is a concern, use gluten-free pita bread or flatbreads.
