Simple & Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki

Simple & Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki 🍗🇬🇷✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a savory, flavorful dish that transports your taste buds straight to Greece, then this Greek chicken gyros recipe is a must-try! Juicy, tender chicken seasoned with aromatic herbs, wrapped in warm pita bread, and topped with a creamy homemade tzatziki — this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together, this authentic gyros recipe promises to impress.

2. Ingredients for Greek Chicken Gyros

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 pita breads or flatbreads
  • Fresh vegetables for toppings (tomatoes, red onions, lettuce)
  • Optional: feta cheese or sliced cucumbers

3. Homemade Tzatziki Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or mint
  • Salt and pepper to taste

4. Preparing the Chicken Gyros

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Tzatziki

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill or mint, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

5. Assembling the Greek Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki

Warm the Pita Bread

Place the pita in a warm skillet or wrap in foil and heat for a few minutes for a soft, pliable texture.

Assemble the Gyros

Spread a generous spoonful of homemade tzatziki on the pita, then add the cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and feta if desired. Roll tightly and serve immediately.

6. Storage Tips for Leftover Gyros

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the homemade tzatziki in a separate container. To reheat, microwave the chicken until hot; assemble the gyros fresh for the best experience.

7. Serving Suggestions

Serve your Greek chicken gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or crispy kettle chips. For a complete Mediterranean feast, you might want to check out our dreamy chicken pasta or other dinner ideas on our site.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Greek Chicken Gyros

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them to prevent dryness. Thighs tend to stay juicier.

What can I substitute for homemade tzatziki?

If you’re short on time, plain Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of herbs makes a quick alternative.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total prep and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, including marination.

9. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like savoring authentic Greek chicken gyros made in your own kitchen. With the delightful crunch of fresh vegetables and the creamy tang of homemade tzatziki, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Dive into this authentic gyros recipe today and enjoy a taste of Greece at home!

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Golden-brown slices of Greek chicken gyros arranged on a white plate, topped with fresh chopped herbs and served with creamy homemade tzatziki, visible cucumber and dill. The dish is garnished with lemon wedges and accompanied by warm pita bread, all on a rustic wooden table with Mediterranean-style decor.

Simple & Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki

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Enjoy the flavors of Greece with this simple and authentic Greek Chicken Gyros recipe, featuring tender marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with creamy homemade tzatziki. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this Mediterranean classic offers a delicious taste of Greece in your own kitchen.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 pita breads or flatbreads
  • Fresh vegetables for toppings (tomatoes, red onions, lettuce)
  • Optional: feta cheese or sliced cucumbers

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill or mint, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Warm the pita bread in a skillet or wrap in foil and heat briefly for softness.
  5. Spread tzatziki on the pita, add cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and feta if desired. Roll tightly and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
  • Cook the chicken until fully browned to ensure juiciness and flavor.
  • Chill the tzatziki for best taste before serving.
  • Assemble gyros just before serving for the best texture.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken before assembling.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Grill
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten-free options available, Dairy includes yogurt

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 gyro (with pita and toppings)
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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