Delicious Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Unleash the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen with these incredible chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce. Imagine tender, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, nestled in warm pita bread with crisp, fresh vegetables and a cooling, creamy homemade tzatziki. This recipe brings the iconic street food experience to your table with ease, promising a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and wonderfully fresh. To understand the rich history behind this beloved dish, exploring the origins of gyros street food reveals its fascinating evolution from ancient culinary traditions. Get ready to create a truly memorable dinner!

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Gyros

You’ll quickly fall in love with making these chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce for so many reasons. They offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes perfect for any occasion.

• Tender, Flavorful Chicken: Marinating the chicken infuses it with zesty, herby goodness, ensuring every bite is succulent and packed with authentic Greek-inspired flavor.
• Creamy, Refreshing Tzatziki: The homemade tzatziki is the star, offering a cool, garlicky, and tangy counterpoint that perfectly balances the rich chicken.
• Quick Weeknight Meal: Despite its impressive flavor, this recipe comes together surprisingly fast, making it ideal for busy evenings when you crave something special without the fuss.
• Perfect for Family or Entertaining: These gyros are a crowd-pleaser, easy to customize for individual preferences, and always a hit whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively gathering.
• Simple, Fresh Ingredients: You’ll use readily available ingredients, transforming them into a dish that tastes wonderfully gourmet with minimal effort. The focus on fresh, wholesome components in dishes like gyros aligns with the widely recognized health benefits of the Mediterranean diet.

Ingredients

Gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to making the best chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce. Each component plays a vital role in building these incredible flavors.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lb / 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thigh fillets (or breast)
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced (~ 3 tsp)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
• 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

• 2 cucumbers (to make about 1/2 – 3/4 cup grated cucumber after squeezing out juice)
• 1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Black pepper, to taste

For Assembling the Gyros

• 4 to 6 pita breads or flatbreads
• 3 tomatoes, deseeded and diced
• 3 cucumbers, diced
• 1/2 red Spanish onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional)
• Salt and pepper, for salad

Equipment

Having the right tools makes preparing these chicken gyros simple and enjoyable. You likely have most of these kitchen essentials already.

• Large mixing bowl
• Ziploc bag (for marinating)
• Box grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Paper towels or a clean tea towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear, detailed steps to create delicious chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce from scratch. Each stage is designed for ease and maximum flavor.

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Combine the minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large Ziploc bag. Massage the bag to ensure all ingredients are well mixed. Add the chicken thigh fillets to the bag, massaging again to thoroughly coat all the chicken pieces in the flavorful marinade. Place the sealed bag in the refrigerator and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably 3 hours, ideally 12 hours, but no longer than 24 hours for optimal tenderness and taste for your chicken gyros.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Begin by preparing the cucumbers for your homemade tzatziki sauce. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and use a teaspoon to scoop out the watery seeds. Coarsely grate the deseeded cucumber using a box grater.

Next, wrap the grated cucumber in several layers of paper towels or a clean tea towel. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess liquid as possible; this step is crucial for a thick, creamy tzatziki. Place the squeezed cucumber in a bowl.

Add the Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients until well combined. For the best flavor, cover and chill the sauce for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This will make your chicken gyros shine!

Prepare the Gyros Salad

While the chicken marinates and the tzatziki chills, prepare the fresh salad components for your chicken gyros. Dice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. If using, chop the fresh parsley leaves and add them to the vegetable mixture. Season the salad lightly with a pinch of salt and black pepper, tossing gently to combine. Set the salad aside; you will assemble the gyros just before serving.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat, or heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a fry pan or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly brush the grill grates or pan with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Carefully remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken pieces on the preheated grill or in the hot pan. Cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.

The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken. Once cooked, transfer the chicken from the grill or pan onto a clean plate. Loosely cover it with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken for your delicious chicken gyros.

Assemble Your Gyros

To assemble your perfect chicken gyros, first warm the pita breads or flatbreads briefly in a dry pan, microwave, or oven until pliable. While the pita warms, slice the rested chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

If your chicken thighs were small, you might only need to halve them. Lay a warm pita bread on a piece of parchment paper or foil. Spoon a generous portion of the prepared gyros salad down the middle of the bread.

Next, layer the sliced chicken on top of the salad. Finish with a dollop or two of the creamy, homemade tzatziki sauce. To serve, roll the wrap up tightly, using the parchment paper to secure it. Twist the excess parchment paper at one end to hold the gyro together. Alternatively, lay all the components on a table and let everyone build their own custom chicken gyros.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Gyros

Elevate your homemade chicken gyros with these expert tips, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor and perfect texture.

• Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor: Plan ahead and marinate your chicken for at least 12 hours. This deeply infuses the chicken with zesty, herby goodness.
• Squeeze Cucumber Well for Thick Tzatziki: Excess moisture is the enemy of creamy tzatziki. Squeeze that grated cucumber until it’s as dry as possible for a perfect consistency.
• Rest Chicken for Juicy Results: Always let cooked chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, succulent chicken for your gyros.
• Warm Pita for Pliability: Gently warm your pita breads before assembling. They become softer and more flexible, making them easier to roll without tearing.
• Adjust Garlic and Oregano to Taste: Feel free to modify the amounts of garlic and oregano in both the chicken marinade and tzatziki to suit your personal preference.
• Use Good Quality Olive Oil: A flavorful extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste of both the chicken marinade and the tzatziki sauce significantly.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

Make the most of your delicious chicken gyros with these helpful tips for serving, storing, and creative variations.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce immediately as satisfying wraps. For a fun, customizable meal, present all components as a deconstructed gyros platter, allowing everyone to build their own. Pair them alongside a refreshing Greek salad or a light lemon orzo for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store cooked chicken separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep the homemade tzatziki sauce refrigerated in a separate airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Store the diced salad components separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Assemble fresh gyros just before eating for the best taste and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Breast: You can easily use boneless, skinless chicken breast instead of thighs; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as breast cooks faster.
• Add Feta: Enhance the flavor by crumbling some salty feta cheese over your chicken gyros before wrapping.
• Extra Veggies: Include sliced Kalamata olives or thinly sliced bell peppers in your salad mixture for added texture and taste.
• Gyros Bowls: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, serve the chicken and salad components over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh dill or mint to your tzatziki for a different aromatic twist.

Nutrition Information

Enjoying your chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce means savoring a balanced and flavorful meal. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, offering a general guide for your dietary planning. Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used.

Note: These values are approximate. Adjust for specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Get quick answers to common questions about preparing and enjoying these delicious chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce.

• Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breast for thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as chicken breast cooks faster and can dry out if overcooked.
• How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours for flavor, ideally 12-24 hours for the best tenderness and deeper taste for your chicken gyros.
• Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time? Absolutely, the tzatziki sauce benefits greatly from chilling for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance.
• Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the chicken in its marinade for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
• What kind of yogurt is best for tzatziki? Full-fat Greek yogurt is highly recommended for its thick, creamy texture and rich flavor, which is essential for an authentic homemade tzatziki sauce.

Conclusion

You now have all the tools and inspiration to create incredibly delicious chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce right in your own kitchen! This recipe proves that exceptional flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender, marinated chicken, a vibrant fresh salad, and the ultimate creamy tzatziki, you’re set to enjoy a truly satisfying and authentic meal. We encourage you to try this recipe, savor every bite, and share your delightful experiences with us. Happy cooking!

Delicious Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

This recipe features tender chicken thigh fillets marinated in a flavorful mixture and cooked to perfection, served in warm pita bread with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce and fresh salad. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 6 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Kitchen Equipment

• Ziplock Bag
• Teaspoon
• Box grater
• Paper towels or tea towel
• Bowl
• Outdoor grill or Fry pan
• Oil brush
• Foil
• Plate
• parchment paper

Recipe Ingredients

  

Chicken Gyros Marinade

• 2 lb / 1 kg chicken thigh fillets boneless skinless
• 3 large cloves garlic cloves minced (~ 3 tsp)
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or red wine or apple cider vinegar)
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt preferably full fat
• 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• Black pepper

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

• 2 cucumbers (to make about 1/2 – 3/4 cup grated cucumber after squeezing out juice)
• 1 1/4 cups Greek yoghurt preferably full fat
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
• 1 clove garlic clove minced
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Black pepper

Fresh Salad

• 3 tomatoes desseeded and diced
• 3 cucumbers diced
• 1/2 red spanish onion peeled and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional)
• Salt and pepper

To Serve

• 4 to 6 pita breads or flat breads

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Preparation

• Place all marinade ingredients in a ziplock bag with the chicken, massaging to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, ideally 12 hours, but no longer than 24 hours.
• To prepare the cucumber for tzatziki, cut it in half lengthwise, then use a teaspoon to scrape out the watery seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber and then wrap it in paper towels or a tea towel to squeeze out excess liquid.
• Combine the squeezed cucumber with the remaining tzatziki ingredients in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced cucumbers, finely chopped red onion, and optional fresh parsley leaves. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking & Assembly

• Brush your outdoor grill with oil and preheat to medium-high heat, or alternatively, heat 1 tbsp of oil in a fry pan over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.
• Transfer the cooked chicken from the grill or pan to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• If your chicken thighs are large, you may need to cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces before serving.
• Take a warmed pita or flatbread and place it on parchment paper. Arrange some prepared salad down the middle, then top with the rested chicken and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
• Roll up the filled pita, using the parchment paper to help enclose it. Twist the excess parchment paper at the end to secure the wrap, and cut it if desired for easier handling.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably 3, and ideally 12 hours for best flavor; do not exceed 24 hours. The chicken thighs may need to be cut after cooking if they are large. Serving everything buffet-style allows guests to customize their gyros.

Keyword Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce, Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce