Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki

This Mediterranean chicken gyros recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your dinner table. The juicy marinated chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy feta tzatziki for a balanced combination that never disappoints.

I first made these gyros after returning from a trip to Santorini, trying desperately to recreate those unforgettable street food flavors. Now they've become our Friday night tradition, replacing our usual takeout with something even more delicious.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: the dark meat stays juicy and absorbs the marinade beautifully
• Olive oil: choose extra virgin for authentic Mediterranean flavor
• Dried oregano: provides that classic Greek profile look for bright green leaves
• Garlic powder: offers consistent flavor throughout the marinade
• Plain Greek yogurt: use full fat for the creamiest tzatziki texture
• Feta cheese: traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk delivers the best tangy flavor
• Fresh vegetables: choose firm cucumbers and ripe cherry tomatoes for best results
• Pita breads: warm slightly before serving for authentic experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine olive oil with oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl large enough to hold all the chicken. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly coated. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes but for best results let it rest in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken thighs without overcrowding the pan you may need to work in batches. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the exterior develops a beautiful golden brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.

Prepare the Tzatziki:

While the chicken cooks, combine Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should have a thick but spreadable consistency. Refrigerate until ready to use to allow flavors to meld.

Assemble the Gyros:

Warm pita breads slightly. Spread a generous layer of tzatziki on each pita. Arrange sliced chicken on top, then add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Top with additional tzatziki if desired and garnish with fresh parsley. Fold or roll and serve immediately for the best eating experience.

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The feta cheese is truly the secret ingredient that elevates this recipe. My Greek neighbor taught me to let it come to room temperature before crumbling into the tzatziki, which allows its tangy flavor to bloom fully throughout the sauce. It reminds me of the seaside tavernas where locals would insist that proper tzatziki always includes a bit of feta.

Make Ahead Options

These gyros are perfect for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which actually improves the flavor. The tzatziki sauce benefits from sitting in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the garlic and feta flavors to meld beautifully. Store all components separately and assemble just before eating for the freshest experience. This approach has saved our weeknight dinners countless times when schedules get hectic.

Authentic Touches

For a truly authentic Greek experience, try grilling the marinated chicken over charcoal instead of pan frying. The subtle smokiness adds another dimension that evokes street food vendors across Greece. Traditional Greek cooks also add a pinch of dried mint to the tzatziki for a refreshing note. If you can find Greek oregano specifically, use it in the marinade its flavor is more intense and aromatic than the common variety found in most supermarkets.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these gyros with a side of simple lemon rice or a classic Greek salad with kalamata olives and more feta. For a complete Greek feast, add some homemade hummus and warm pita triangles as starters. A chilled glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko pairs wonderfully with the bright flavors. For a more casual gathering, set up a gyro bar where everyone can assemble their own with various toppings including roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and different sauces.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe easily adapts to different dietary needs. For a gluten free version, use gluten free pita bread or serve the chicken and toppings over a bed of rice. To make it dairy free, replace the yogurt with a coconut yogurt alternative and skip the feta or use a plant based feta substitute. For a lower carb option, serve all components over a large Greek salad or wrapped in lettuce leaves instead of pita. The core flavors remain delicious regardless of these modifications.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make these gyros gluten-free?

To make these gyros gluten-free, simply substitute regular pita bread with certified gluten-free pita or flatbread alternatives. The rest of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, including the chicken, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breast is leaner and can dry out more easily, so reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C. For maximum juiciness, consider brining the chicken breast beforehand.

→ How far in advance can I make the tzatziki sauce?

The feta tzatziki sauce actually improves with time as flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir before serving to maintain its creamy consistency.

→ What sides pair well with these chicken gyros?

These Mediterranean chicken gyros pair beautifully with Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes seasoned with oregano, or a simple side of olives and pickled vegetables. For a complete Mediterranean spread, consider serving with hummus and pita chips as appetizers.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling adds wonderful smoky flavor to the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the marinated chicken thighs for approximately 5-6 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C.

→ How can I make these gyros more kid-friendly?

To make these more appealing to children, consider serving the components separately (deconstructed style) so kids can build their own. You might also reduce the garlic and herbs in the chicken marinade, offer a milder tzatziki without the feta, and include familiar vegetables that your children enjoy.