Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

If you crave a delicious and vibrant Mediterranean meal that’s bursting with flavor and freshness, this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection pairs beautifully with creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, while crisp vegetables and warm pita complete the experience. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of savory, herby, and refreshing notes that will instantly transport you to a bustling Greek taverna. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests, making it a true kitchen favorite that everyone will savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe really comes down to the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering authentic flavors, from the tangy marinade spices to the creamy yogurt base in the sauce and the crisp toppings that add freshness and crunch.

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips: Tender chicken is perfect for marinating and grilling, ensuring juicy bites.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds richness and a bit of tang to the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: The heart-healthy fat that coats the meat and infuses it with Mediterranean flavor.
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Gives a subtle acidity that brightens the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon dried Mediterranean oregano: Classic herb that brings that unmistakable Greek aroma.
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic: For deep, savory notes without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and depth to the marinade.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy undertone.
• 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and enhances the flavors throughout.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (for the tzatziki): Thick and creamy, this is the base of the refreshing sauce.
• 2 baby cucumbers, grated: Their watery crunch is essential for authentic tzatziki texture.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Bright herbaceous note that makes tzatziki sing.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy pop to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the sauce): Silky texture and a touch of richness.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste): To season the sauce perfectly.
• 6 pitas, warmed: Soft and pliable, the ideal vessel for all those delicious fillings.
• 2 cups shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and a fresh, green balance.
• 1/4 cup pickled onions: A tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy tzatziki.
• 2 baby cucumbers, diced: More fresh crunch inside the gyro.
• 1 beefsteak tomato, diced: Juicy sweetness in every bite.
• 2 oz feta, crumbled: Salty and creamy finishing touch.

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until you create a smooth and fragrant marinade. Toss the chicken strips in this mixture until they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though marinating up to 24 hours will intensify the flavors.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking; if indoors, drizzle some olive oil in the pan. Grill the marinated chicken strips for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F and develop those gorgeous grill marks.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, get the tzatziki going. Combine the Greek yogurt with grated cucumbers, fresh dill, lemon zest, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The cucumbers should be squeezed slightly to remove excess water so the sauce stays thick and creamy. Pop the sauce into the fridge to chill until assembly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Gyros

Warm the pita breads just before serving to make them soft and bendable. Layer each pita generously with grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, pickled onions, diced cucumbers and tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a hearty dollop of your homemade tzatziki. Wrap it up or enjoy open-faced—the perfect medley of textures and flavors awaits.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your gyros from delicious to unforgettable. Sprinkle extra fresh chopped dill or oregano on top, or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Crumbled feta adds a salty, creamy element that brings everything together perfectly. Pickled onions provide a sharp, tangy contrast that wakes up your palate.

Side Dishes

The best part about Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is that it pairs wonderfully with simple Mediterranean sides. Consider a Greek salad filled with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, or some crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and herbs. A side of warm pita chips with hummus is also an excellent choice for guests who want to nibble a little extra.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve all the gyro components buffet-style and let everyone assemble their own. You can also arrange open-faced gyros on a platter garnished with extra dill and lemon wedges for a family-style meal. If you’re looking to impress, slice the gyros into smaller portions and serve as appetizer bites with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep your pita breads and fresh toppings separate to avoid sogginess. This way, each element stays fresh and ready for quick gyros on a busy day.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken strips before cooking for up to 2 months. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container after marinating. It’s best not to freeze cooked chicken gyros or tzatziki sauce because their textures don’t hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftover grilled chicken gently in a skillet or the oven to keep it juicy and tender. Avoid microwaving for too long as the chicken can dry out. Serve immediately with freshly warmed pita, crisp veggies, and a fresh scoop of tzatziki to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly fine as long as they are sliced into strips so they cook evenly and stay tender during grilling. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

How long can I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is enough to infuse the chicken with flavor, but for deeper, more complex taste, you can marinate up to 24 hours. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated while marinating.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use regular plain yogurt strained through a cheesecloth to get the same thick and creamy texture. Avoid using flavored or low-fat yogurts for best results.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Tzatziki actually tastes better after resting in the fridge for at least an hour as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to drain excess moisture from the cucumbers before mixing to keep the sauce from becoming watery.

What are some vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

You can swap the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, portobello mushrooms, or even falafel for a delicious vegetarian version that still delivers on texture and flavor alongside the tzatziki sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about building your own Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe right at home. From the juicy, herb-marinated chicken to the creamy, refreshing tzatziki and crisp veggies, this dish has won a permanent place in my recipe collection. I hope you give it a try soon and gather your loved ones for a meal that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat!

Print