Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

Name: Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads; Chopped tomatoes and onions for serving; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 small cucumber, grated and drained; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I can’t get enough of these Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki! They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend lunch. The tender, marinated chicken paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. We’ve perfected the method to ensure the chicken stays juicy and the spices are just right. Whether served in warm pita or on a bed of fresh greens, these gyros will definitely become a go-to recipe in your household.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:00:38.567Z

I remember the first time I made these Chicken Gyros for my friends. They were blown away by how simple and flavorful they turned out. The real secret lies in the marinade — a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with delicious flavors. I always marinate the chicken overnight for extra juiciness and flavor.

The tzatziki sauce, bursting with fresh cucumber and dill, is the perfect accompaniment that balances the savory chicken. It’s such a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken marinated in vibrant spices
Creamy tzatziki that cools and complements beautifully
Quick to prepare for weeknight meals or gatherings

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken gyros. By using a base of plain yogurt, you are not only adding creaminess but also tenderizing the chicken. The acidity from the lemon juice works in tandem with the yogurt, helping to break down proteins while infusing the chicken with vibrant flavors. For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices, garlic, and herbs to fully permeate the meat, resulting in an explosion of flavor in every bite.

When marinating, ensure that the chicken thighs are evenly coated. I recommend using a resealable bag for easy mixing and coating—just place your chicken and marinade inside, seal it, and give it a good shake. Remember to store it in the refrigerator, and if you're marinating for several hours, take it out about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. This helps achieve a better sear when cooking.

Making Perfect Tzatziki

Tzatziki sauce is a crucial element that elevates your chicken gyros, providing a refreshing and cooling contrast to the spiced meat. The key ingredient here is grated cucumber, which should be squeezed to remove excess moisture. This ensures that your tzatziki stays creamy and doesn’t become watery. Use a fine grater, and if you like a stronger cucumber flavor, opt for an English cucumber; its skin is thinner and sweeter than regular cucumbers.

I find that letting the tzatziki sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving enhances the flavors significantly. The garlic and dill infuse themselves into the yogurt, creating a perfectly balanced sauce. If you're short on time, even a 30-minute chill can make a difference. Feel free to customize your tzatziki by adding a splash of vinegar for a tangier taste or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick, depending on your preference.

Serving and Storing Tips

These chicken gyros can be served in various ways, whether in warm pita or over a bed of crisp greens for a lighter meal. You can also consider offering additional toppings like feta cheese, olives, or pickled red onions to enhance the flavor profile. If you're preparing these for a gathering, setting up a DIY gyro bar allows guests to customize their own, making it an engaging experience for everyone involved.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay juicy for up to three days while the tzatziki should be consumed within two days for the freshest flavor. You can reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain its moisture—simply cover it with foil until warmed through. Freezing is also an option; just ensure to slice the chicken before freezing for convenient use later.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Gyros

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 pita breads
Chopped tomatoes and onions for serving

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 small cucumber, grated and drained
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until smooth and refrigerate until serving.

Assemble the Gyros

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Place a generous amount of chicken into each pita, and top with chopped tomatoes, onions, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Roll up and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some fresh herbs or spices to the tzatziki. Experiment with toppings like lettuce or feta cheese to personalize your gyros.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that breasts tend to dry out more easily, so consider reducing the cooking time to roughly 4-6 minutes per side. You might also want to marinate in the yogurt mixture for less time—about 20 minutes—so it doesn’t become overly tenderized and fall apart during cooking.

For the tzatziki, if you're lactose intolerant, you can use dairy-free yogurt alternatives made from coconut or almond milk. Just be sure to select a plain variety without added sugars. Additionally, fresh herbs such as mint can be a delightful substitute for dill, providing a unique flavor twist if you're looking for something different.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on the number of servings needed. If cooking for a larger group, simply double or triple the marinade and chicken amounts. When it comes to grilling, space is crucial. Avoid overcrowding the grill or skillet, as this can trap steam, leading to uneven cooking; use batches if necessary to ensure the chicken gets that beautifully charred exterior.

For a smaller portion, you can also make just a couple of gyros without compromising on flavor. Save any leftover marinade to create a small batch of chicken for lunches or snacks throughout the week. The flexible nature of the recipe allows for both casual weeknight dinners or more elaborate gatherings without extra fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

→ How long can I store the tzatziki sauce?

The tzatziki sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days without losing its freshness.

→ Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely! Store-bought tzatziki can save time if you're in a hurry.

→ What other vegetables can I add to my gyros?

Feel free to add lettuce, bell peppers, or olives for an extra crunch and flavor.