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Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

A delightful Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy cucumber tzatziki, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keyword: Chicken Gyros, Gyros, Tzatziki
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Tender chicken, holding onto flavors beautifully.
  • 3 tbsp olive oil Rich in healthy fats, used for both marinade and tzatziki.
  • Juice of 1 lemon Brightens the dish with zesty freshness.
  • 2 tsp dried oregano Herbs add a fragrant, earthy depth.
  • 1 tsp paprika For a subtle smokiness that enhances the chicken.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Imparts bold, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tsp ground cumin Offers a warm, slightly nutty flavor.

For the Tzatziki

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt Creates a creamy base for tzatziki.
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped Adds a refreshing herbal note.
  • 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry Provides a crisp, cooling element.

For Assembly

  • 4–6 pieces pita breads Soft and fluffy, perfect for wrapping.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Tangy cheese that complements the dish.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet bursts of color and freshness.
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced Adds sharpness and crunch.
  • Fresh leaves lettuce Lightens the gyros with freshness.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  • Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Make the Tzatziki

  • In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), minced garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Let the tzatziki rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

  • Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken.
  • Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through, then let the chicken sit for 5 minutes before slicing.

Warm the Pitas

  • Warm each pita in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.

Assemble the Gyros

  • On each warm pita, spread tzatziki, layer with sliced chicken, and top with red onion, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and lettuce.
  • Fold the pita gyros or serve them open-faced.

Notes

You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or falafel for a vegetarian option. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers.