Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki: A Mediterranean Delight

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Greece with this mouthwatering Greek Chicken Gyros recipe. Packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, tender marinated chicken, and creamy cucumber tzatziki, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these gyros are sure to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners!

 

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marination Time: 2-4 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including marination)
• Servings: 4 gyros

 

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt to taste

For the Gyros:

• 4 pita bread rounds
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

1. While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt.
3. Stir until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the marinated chicken strips for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

1. Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make it pliable.
2. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce onto each pita.
3. Add the cooked chicken strips, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions.
4. Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Fold the pita bread around the filling to create a gyro wrap. If needed, secure with parchment paper or foil for easier handling.
2. Serve immediately with extra tzatziki sauce on the side.

 

Greek Chicken Gyros are not just a meal—they’re an experience. The tangy marinade, creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings come together to create a dish that’s as vibrant as the Mediterranean itself. Best of all, this recipe is customizable. Add your favorite veggies, experiment with whole-wheat pita, or spice things up with a dash of paprika in the marinade. Whether you’re savoring them fresh off the grill or packing them for a picnic, these gyros are guaranteed to be a hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Whip up these Greek Chicken Gyros and bring the flavors of Greece to your kitchen today!