These Easy Greek Chicken Gyros are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a cool tzatziki sauce come together beautifully in this tasty wrap.
Making these gyros is so much fun! I love serving them with extra tzatziki on the side—it’s the perfect dip! Grab what you have in the fridge and make it your own! 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, but chicken breasts work great too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for turkey or even plant-based alternatives like tempeh or tofu.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its rich flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil, but keep the taste in mind.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the tzatziki a creamy texture. You can use low-fat yogurt or even a dairy-free version, like almond or coconut yogurt, for a lighter option.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber is best for the tzatziki. If you don’t have one, try using grated zucchini or even a store-bought cucumber salad for a different twist.
Dill: Fresh dill is fantastic, but if it’s not available, dried dill works too. Personally, I often add a squeeze of lemon into the tzatziki for extra freshness.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is the key to great flavor and tenderness. The combination of olive oil, garlic, vinegar or lemon juice, and spices really makes a difference.
- Mix the marinade up to 2 hours ahead—this allows the flavors to meld.
- Don’t rush cooking the chicken; take about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat to get them lightly browned while keeping them juicy.
- Keep the chicken pieces uniform in size for even cooking. Slice them thinly so they absorb the marinade well.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously juicy chicken in every bite! Enjoy making your gyros! 🌯
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Fresh Tzatziki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Gyros:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Fresh Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced or diced
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
- Lettuce leaves or mixed greens (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. If you choose to marinate the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours), that can enhance the flavor. Enjoy these crispy gyros with tzatziki sauce in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and stir well to coat all the pieces. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, take another bowl and combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix everything well and add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and place it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
4. Warm the Pitas:
To warm the pita breads, either heat them in a dry pan over low heat or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Assemble the Gyros:
Start by placing a warm pita on a plate. Add some cooked chicken slices, a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, followed by sliced red onions and tomatoes. Feel free to add lettuce or mixed greens if you like. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Fold the pita around the delicious fillings and dig in right away! If you made extra, serve more tzatziki on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Greek chicken gyros!
This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect quick and flavorful Greek-inspired meal for family or friends! 🌯
FAQ for Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Fresh Tzatziki
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, lamb, or even plant-based options like tempeh or marinated tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time appropriately based on the protein you’re using.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover gyros can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet, and keep the pitas separate to avoid them becoming soggy. The tzatziki sauce stays fresh for about a week, too!
Can I Make Tzatziki Without Yogurt?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or other plant-based yogurts. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary a bit, but it will still be delightful!
What Should I Serve with the Gyros?
These gyros are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries for a more complete meal. Enjoy with some extra tzatziki for dipping!
