Description
This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe with Tzatziki offers a delicious and authentic taste of Greece. Tender grilled chicken marinated in Mediterranean herbs and spices is paired with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and fresh dill. Served in warm pita bread with crisp lettuce, pickled onions, fresh vegetables, and crumbled feta, these gyros make for a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried Mediterranean oregano
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 baby cucumbers, grated on a box grater
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Gyro Assembly
- 4 pitas, warmed
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickled onions
- 2 baby cucumbers, diced
- 1 beefsteak tomato, diced
- 2 oz feta, crumbled
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Mediterranean oregano, granulated garlic, onion powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper until smooth. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat Grill or Grill Pan: Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, clean and lightly oil the grates. If using a grill pan, drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken strips on the hot grill or pan. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, grilling until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with a nicely charred exterior.
- Prepare Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, chopped fresh dill, ground cumin, lemon zest, and olive oil in a bowl. Stir until smooth. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita breads. Divide the grilled chicken evenly among the pitas. Top each pita with shredded lettuce, pickled onions, diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for more intense flavor, up to 24 hours.
- For a lighter option, use chicken breasts instead of tenders.
- Grated cucumber for tzatziki should be squeezed to remove excess water to prevent a watery sauce.
- Warm the pita briefly in the oven or on the grill for a softer texture and enhanced flavor.
- Feel free to add additional toppings such as sliced red onions, olives, or hot sauce according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek