Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki
Juicy marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and a fresh Mediterranean salad all wrapped in warm pita—this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Greece straight to your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lb (1 kg) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (about 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 full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1½ tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 2 cucumbers (yields about ½–¾ cup grated cucumber after squeezing out liquid)
- 1¼ cups full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (add more for a richer texture)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
For the Salad:
- Diced tomatoes (seeds removed)
- 3 small cucumbers, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 4 to 6 pita breads or flatbreads
- Optional: crumbled feta, kalamata olives, or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients together. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
2. Make the Tzatziki:
Grate cucumbers and squeeze out excess moisture using a cheesecloth or clean towel. In a bowl, combine yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Prepare the Salad:
In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 4–5 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
5. Assemble the Gyros:
Warm the pita breads. Add a layer of tzatziki, followed by sliced chicken, salad, and any extras like feta or olives. Roll up and enjoy!
Tips & Serving Ideas
- Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate chicken and make tzatziki a day in advance.
- Low Carb Option: Serve over salad instead of in pita.
- Party Style: Set up a gyro bar with all the toppings and let everyone build their own!
Prep & Nutrition Info
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marination: 2+ hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories: ~480 kcal per serving (varies with pita size and toppings)
