Name: Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lb / 1 kg boneless skinless chicken thigh fillets; 3 large garlic cloves, minced (about 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; 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 for a richer taste); 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/4 tsp salt; Black pepper, to taste; 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; 4 to 6 pita breads or flatbreads

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 171 reviews

If you have ever craved a dish packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that feels both comforting and fresh, then you are in for a real treat with this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic herbs and citrus, paired with cool, creamy homemade tzatziki, all wrapped in warm pita bread, create a delightful harmony that never fails to impress. This recipe captures the essence of Greek street food in your own kitchen—a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh that will make you want to reach for seconds every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two wraps are shown on a white marbled surface, each wrapped in a soft, light beige flatbread. Inside, each wrap has one large, grilled piece of chicken with a golden-brown and slightly charred texture. Surrounding the chicken are layers of green cucumber cubes and small red tomato pieces, adding fresh color. There is a creamy white sauce spread over the chicken and vegetables inside the wraps. The wraps are positioned with their open ends facing the viewer, and in the background, a wedge of lemon and some small pieces of red onion and green herbs are scattered lightly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Making Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe requires familiar, straightforward ingredients that come together magically. Each element is essential, contributing to the layers of flavor, the tender texture, and the refreshing finish that make this dish so irresistible.

Chicken thigh fillets: Juicy and flavorful, they stay tender during cooking and soak up marinade beautifully.

Garlic cloves: Infuse the marinade and tzatziki with a pungent, savory depth.
White wine vinegar: Adds gentle acidity that brightens the marinade perfectly.
Lemon juice: Provides zesty freshness that balances richness.
Extra virgin olive oil: Rich and fruity, it helps tenderize the chicken and enrich the tzatziki.

Greek yogurt: The creamy base for marinade and tzatziki, lending authenticity and tang.
Dried oregano: The classic herb that evokes the true taste of Greece.
Salt and black pepper: Enhances every flavor without overpowering.
Cucumbers: Both grated and diced for tzatziki and salad; refresh every bite.

Tomatoes: Add juicy sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
Red Spanish onion: Provides a sharp crunchiness that contrasts beautifully.
Fresh parsley leaves: Optional but brilliant for a burst of herbal brightness.

Pita or flatbreads: The perfect vessel to wrap all the delicious fillings.

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken

Begin by combining minced garlic, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a ziplock bag. This marinade is your secret weapon for tender, flavorful chicken packed with Mediterranean zest. Add the chicken thigh fillets, seal the bag, and massage so every piece is beautifully coated. The key to juicy gyros is to marinate the chicken for at least two hours, but if you have time, up to 12 hours will deepen the flavors wonderfully.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki

The tzatziki is what transforms this recipe from great to unforgettable. Start by halving cucumbers, scooping out watery seeds, and grating the flesh. It’s crucial to squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a towel, so your tzatziki isn’t watery but luxuriously creamy. Then, mix the grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 20 minutes—this is where the flavors meld into a dreamy sauce that adds cooling relief to the seasoned chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Salad

Open up your fridge and chop the remaining cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss these with fresh parsley, salt, and pepper for an easy salad that brings brightness and crunch to your gyros. This salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy chicken and creamy tzatziki, giving each bite wonderful texture and color.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry, brushing your cooking surface with oil ensures a nice sear that locks in juiciness. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown exterior and are cooked through. Don’t rush this step—letting the chicken rest loosely covered for five minutes after cooking keeps it tender and juicy, perfect for slicing and filling your gyros.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

Warm your pita or flatbread to make it pliable and inviting. On a piece of parchment or foil, lay down a generous spoonful of the fresh salad, add sliced chicken, and dollop of creamy tzatziki on top. Roll tightly, twisting the parchment end to keep everything snug. This step is fun and customizable—feel free to adjust the filling to your liking. It’s the essence of what makes a gyro so comforting and personalized.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate your gyro from delicious to restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill over the top for a pop of green herbaceous vibrancy. A pinch of smoked paprika or a few thin slices of red onion can add a hint of exciting color and an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice for that fresh finish that brightens each mouthful.

Side Dishes

The beauty of Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe is how versatile it is with sides. Serve alongside crispy Greek fries sprinkled with oregano and sea salt for an indulgent experience. A light Greek salad with feta, olives, and cucumber perfectly complements the gyros without overpowering them. Or try a simple lemon-infused rice pilaf to balance the bold flavors of the chicken and tzatziki.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a casual gathering, set up a gyro station with all the components—pitas, chicken, tzatziki, salad, and garnishes—and let everyone build their own. For an elegant dinner, slice the gyros and arrange them on a platter with dollops of tzatziki and a side of salad for a vibrant display. You can even serve the ingredients deconstructed on a pretty board to invite guests to savor each flavor individually or combined at their leisure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken gyros components store beautifully in the refrigerator. Keep the chicken, tzatziki sauce, and salad in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. The pita breads are best wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. This way, your gyros ingredients will stay fresh enough to enjoy within 3 to 4 days, allowing for quick and flavorful meals later.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, the marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking for up to two months. On the other hand, tzatziki and salad don’t freeze well as their texture changes upon thawing. Cooked chicken may be frozen but may lose some juiciness after reheating, so if possible, freeze the raw marinated meat and cook fresh when ready.

Reheating

Reheat cooked chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly to avoid drying it out. For the best texture, warm the pita separately, either on a skillet or in a toaster oven. Always serve the reheated chicken with freshly spooned tzatziki to maintain the cool, creamy balance that makes this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful they cook faster and can dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time carefully and consider marinating longer to keep them juicy.

How can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

You can make tzatziki up to a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight, making it even more delicious when served.

Is it necessary to remove cucumber seeds for the tzatziki?

Removing the watery seeds prevents excess moisture that can make tzatziki watery. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture that clings beautifully to the chicken and pita bread.

Can I cook the chicken gyros on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes! A grill pan works wonderfully if you don’t have an outdoor grill. It gives nice grill marks and helps render some of the fat for a tasty, authentic finish.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn’t available, you can use plain full-fat yogurt strained through a cheesecloth to thicken it or use a high-quality sour cream for a similar tangy creaminess, though Greek yogurt is ideal for authenticity.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about preparing and sharing this Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe that brings a bit of sunshine and joy to any table. Its combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and comforting textures makes it an all-time favorite you’ll keep returning to. Whether you’re enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next get-together, this recipe is sure to delight both your taste buds and those lucky enough to eat it with you. So, gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious celebration of Greek cuisine—you won’t regret it!