Juicy, flavorful, and Mediterranean to the core, Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful combination of zesty grilled chicken and cool, creamy tzatziki. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual weekend lunch, these homemade gyros strike the perfect balance between fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe will bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen!

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• Diced tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red onion
• Pita bread or skewers
• Lemon wedges & fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Marinate the Chicken

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken chunks and mix well to coat. Cover and marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2 Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Alternatively, thread the chicken onto skewers and grill kebab-style.

Step 3 Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix all tzatziki sauce ingredients in a bowl. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 4 Assemble the Gyros

Warm pita bread in a skillet or the oven. Fill each pita with grilled chicken, a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, and your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for that extra zing!

Health Benefits

Greek Chicken Gyros are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrition! Rich in lean protein from the chicken and probiotics from the yogurt-based tzatziki, this dish supports muscle health and gut health. The colorful veggies provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, while olive oil adds heart-healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Greek Chicken Gyros with these side ideas for a complete Mediterranean feast:

• A fresh side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette
• Crispy baked potato wedges drizzled with olive oil
• A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Want to skip the pita? Serve the chicken and toppings over rice or quinoa for a gluten-free gyros bowl!

Recipe Variations

Looking to switch it up? Try these ideas:

• Spicy Gyros: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the chicken marinade.
• Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas and use a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.
• Mediterranean Herbed Flatbread: Use flavored flatbreads like garlic or rosemary for an extra layer of taste.

Tips and Tricks

• Draining the Cucumber: Make sure to remove excess water from the grated cucumber for a thick and creamy tzatziki sauce.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection without overcooking.
• Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight and make the tzatziki a day ahead to save time.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and tzatziki for 2 days.
• Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warm. Assemble gyros just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding the chicken in the skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches, if necessary.
• Skipping the Marinade: Don’t rush the process! The marinade is crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
• Using Watery Cucumbers: Without properly draining the cucumber, your tzatziki sauce will turn watery and lose its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! The cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the tzatziki sauce?

It’s not recommended since the yogurt-based sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can prepare fresh tzatziki in under 10 minutes!

What’s the best type of pita bread to use?

Look for soft, fluffy pita bread. Greek-style pita, which doesn’t have a pocket, works wonderfully for gyros.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely! While homemade tzatziki is fresher, a high-quality store-bought option can save time.

Bring Greece to Your Table

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce are the ultimate Mediterranean comfort food. With its zesty grilled chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping lunch for the week, these gyros will quickly become a household favorite.

Give this recipe a try and savor the vibrant flavors of Greece in every bite. Happy cooking!