Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

Name: Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1 tomato, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and drained; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I love making Easy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki because they are a delightful meal that never fails to impress. The perfect combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread transports me straight to the streets of Greece. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for customization, making it great for gatherings or a cozy night in. Every bite is a burst of flavor, and it's a dish my family always looks forward to enjoying.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:06:28.717Z

When I first tried making Chicken Gyros, I was a bit intimidated by the thought of marinating the chicken and preparing the tzatziki sauce from scratch. However, I quickly learned that the key lies in the spices. Using a blend of oregano, garlic, and lemon juice gives the chicken an authentic Mediterranean flavor that results in juicy, tender bites. I’ve found that marinating for at least 30 minutes amplifies the taste, but even a quick soak works wonders.

Pairing the chicken with a fresh cucumber tzatziki not only enhances the dish but also adds a refreshing element. The creamy yogurt mixed with garlic and dill brings everything together. I often serve these gyros with a side of roasted potatoes, making it a complete meal that satisfies. The first time I made them for friends, they couldn’t believe how easy it was!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy, tender chicken infused with Mediterranean spices
Creamy tzatziki sauce that complements every bite
Customizable with your favorite fresh veggies

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a vital step in this recipe, as it infuses the meat with deep flavors from the olive oil, garlic, and oregano. The acid in the lemon juice helps to tenderize the chicken, ensuring it remains juicy throughout cooking. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for 2 hours or even overnight in the fridge can enhance the flavor significantly.

When marinating, ensure that the chicken is fully coated in the mixture. Using a zipper-lock bag can make this easier, allowing you to massage the marinade into the meat. If you find that you have too much marinade left over, don’t hesitate to use it as a flavorful baste while grilling, just remember to discard any that comes into contact with raw chicken for safety.

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce

The tzatziki sauce is what truly elevates these gyros. Using plain Greek yogurt not only gives the sauce its creamy consistency but also adds a tart flavor that balances the savory chicken. Make sure to drain the grated cucumber well; excess moisture can make the tzatziki watery. I often press the cucumber between paper towels to remove as much liquid as possible before mixing it with the yogurt.

For a more pronounced flavor, let the tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes after preparing it. This allows the dill and garlic to meld beautifully with the yogurt. Additionally, if you want a kick, adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of red wine vinegar can provide an interesting twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Gyros

1 lb boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
4 pita breads
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 tomato, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Tzatziki Sauce

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

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and make sure they are well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Assemble the Gyros

Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or microwave. Slice the cooked chicken and layer it onto the pita with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. Roll it up and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper to your tzatziki sauce. If you have time, letting the sauce chill for a bit enhances its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken gyros can be served in various ways. While the classic version involves pita, consider using lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. You can also add grilled vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to incorporate more nutrition and flavor. Pair your gyros with a side of crispy fries or a light Greek salad topped with feta for a complete meal.

For a unique presentation at gatherings, consider creating a gyros platter where you lay out all the components separately. This allows guests to build their own gyros, customizing according to their preferences while enjoying the fresh ingredients laid out beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken can stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the tzatziki usually holds for about 4 to 5 days. To reheat the chicken, slice it and warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, taking care not to dry it out.

Freezing is another option; however, the tzatziki should be consumed fresh for the best texture and flavor. For frozen chicken, ensure it’s tightly wrapped and use it within 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and tzatziki in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?

Absolutely! Tzatziki can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge for better flavor development.

→ What vegetables can I add to gyros?

Feel free to include any of your favorite vegetables such as peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for added flavor!