Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki are a flavorful and fast Mediterranean-inspired meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, warm pita bread, and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce create a balanced and satisfying dish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these gyros deliver restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
ingredients
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
chicken breasts or thighsolive oillemon juicegarlicoregano paprika salt pepperpita breadcucumbergreek yogurtdill red oniontomatoeslettuce
directions
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Slice the chicken into strips and coat with the marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
While the chicken marinates, make the tzatziki by combining grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked and golden.
Warm the pita bread in a skillet or microwave.
Assemble the gyros by layering chicken, tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and red onions in each pita.
Fold and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 gyros.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 10 minutesCooking time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use lamb or beef strips for a different protein option.
Add feta cheese or olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Swap pita for lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Grill the chicken for added smokiness.
Add hot sauce or spicy hummus for a kick.
storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave before assembling gyros.Tzatziki can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes, but homemade offers fresher flavor and customization.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for tzatziki?
Yes, it provides the traditional tangy, thick base. Substitute with plain yogurt if needed.
What type of pita is best?
Soft, thick pita or Greek-style flatbread works best to hold the fillings.
Can I meal prep these gyros?
Yes, prep all components in advance and assemble when ready to eat.
How do I prevent soggy pita?
Add tzatziki just before serving or serve on the side for dipping.
Are these gyros gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pita to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s mild but can be made spicier with chili flakes or hot sauce.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but marinating fresh chicken adds better flavor.
Conclusion
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki are a quick, delicious way to bring Mediterranean flavor to your table. With juicy marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and cool, creamy tzatziki, they’re sure to be a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals, these gyros are as satisfying as they are simple.
Print
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki (30-Minutes)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Tender yogurt-marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with creamy homemade tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions — a quick and flavorful Greek-inspired meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for tzatziki)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar (for tzatziki)
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tsp salt (for tzatziki)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (for tzatziki)
- 4 pita breads
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: chopped lettuce, crumbled feta
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- To make the tzatziki, squeeze moisture from grated cucumber, then combine with yogurt, garlic, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Warm the pita breads in a skillet or oven.
- Assemble gyros by spreading tzatziki on each pita, adding chicken, tomatoes, onions, and optional toppings like lettuce or feta.
- Fold and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Drain cucumber thoroughly to avoid watery tzatziki.
- Grill chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
- Use store-bought tzatziki if short on time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gyro
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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