Quick & Zesty Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Summers in Greece inspire the most mouthwatering street food, and these succulent Greek chicken gyros pack a flavor punch that transports you straight to a bustling Athens marketplace.

Tender marinated chicken, seasoned with aromatic herbs, becomes the star of this classic Mediterranean dish.

Crisp pita bread cradles the juicy meat, while cool and tangy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing counterpoint to the robust flavors.

Vibrant Greek salad brings color and crunch to the plate, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Fragrant oregano and zesty lemon elevate every bite with authentic Mediterranean zest.

Each component of this recipe tells a story of traditional Greek cuisine, inviting you to savor a culinary journey.

Prepare to be delighted by this simple yet extraordinary meal that brings the warmth of Greek hospitality to your table.

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki & Salad: Why It’s a Hit

• Dive into a mouthwatering culinary journey that captures the essence of Greek cuisine with perfectly seasoned chicken, tangy tzatziki, and fresh salad.
• Prepare a restaurant-quality meal with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that make cooking feel like a breeze for both novice and experienced home chefs.
• Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting spices, swapping proteins, or modifying toppings to suit personal preferences and dietary needs while keeping the delicious Greek spirit intact.
• Create a versatile dish perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weeknight meals that will impress everyone with its vibrant flavors and satisfying components.

Ingredients for Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros & Salad

• Chicken: The main protein that provides flavor and substance for the gyros.

• Yogurt, Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Vinegar: These ingredients help tenderize and add tangy flavor to the chicken.
• Salt, Pepper, Oregano: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.

• Yogurt: Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• Cucumber: Adds fresh and cool texture to the sauce.
• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Vinegar: Provide brightness and balance to the sauce.
• Dill, Garlic, Salt: Seasonings that give depth and aromatic quality to the tzatziki.

• Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Red Onion: Fresh vegetables that create the base of the salad.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note to the salad.
• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the salad's flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Provides a tangy and creamy element to the salad.

• Pita Bread: The traditional wrap for serving gyros.

Kitchen Tools for Homemade Greek Chicken Gyros

• Mixing Bowl: Large bowl for marinating chicken and preparing salad.
• Skewers: Metal or wooden skewers for grilling chicken.
• Grater: Used for grating cucumber for tzatziki sauce.
• Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for slicing tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure salt, pepper, and other seasonings accurately.
• Grill or Skillet: For cooking marinated chicken until golden and fully cooked.
• Tongs: To handle and turn chicken while cooking.
• Squeeze Cloth or Paper Towels: To remove excess water from grated cucumber.

How to Make Chicken Gyros, Tzatziki, and Greek Salad

Step 1: Infuse Chicken with Zesty Flavors

• Plain yogurt
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• White vinegar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano

Seal the bag and massage the ingredients into the chicken.

Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination will create mind-blowing flavor depth.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

• Greek yogurt
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• White vinegar
• Salt
• Chopped fresh dill
• Minced garlic

Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture.

Fold the cucumber into the yogurt mixture.

Taste and adjust seasonings for a tangy, refreshing sauce.

Step 3: Create Vibrant Greek Salad

• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped cucumbers
• Sliced red onion
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Crumbled feta cheese

Mix gently to combine and let flavors mingle.

Step 4: Grill or Sear Chicken to Perfection

Grilling method:

Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.

Heat grill to medium heat.

Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Skillet method:

Heat skillet to medium-high.

Add a splash of oil.

Cook chicken for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble Mouthwatering Gyros

Warm pita bread.

Layer with grilled chicken.

Generously spread tzatziki sauce.

Top with Greek salad.

Sprinkle extra feta cheese if desired.

Roll up and enjoy your flavor-packed gyro!

Pro Tips for Fresh, Flavorful Greek Chicken Gyros

• Let chicken soak in yogurt mixture for full 24 hours to infuse deep, rich Mediterranean flavors and tenderize meat thoroughly.
• Drain grated cucumber completely to prevent watery tzatziki, ensuring thick, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to gyros.
• Use medium-high heat when skillet cooking to achieve golden-brown chicken exterior while maintaining juicy interior without burning.
• Check chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee safe, perfectly cooked meat without drying out.
• Briefly warm pita bread on skillet or grill for 30 seconds to enhance texture and prevent soggy wrapping when assembling gyros.

Greek Gyros: Fun Variations and Toppings

• Vegetarian Gyros: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu, seasoned with similar Greek spices for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pita bread or wrap the ingredients in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb version.
• Spicy Mediterranean Variation: Add harissa paste to the marinade or sprinkle red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
• Low-Carb Greek Plate: Skip the pita and serve chicken, tzatziki, and Greek salad as a protein-packed bowl with mixed greens as a base.

Serving Gyros and Salad the Greek Way

• Flavor Fiesta Plating: Arrange gyros on a large wooden board with tzatziki sauce in a small dipping bowl, surrounded by colorful Greek salad for a stunning Mediterranean presentation.
• Mediterranean Picnic Spread: Pack gyros in portable containers with separate compartments for tzatziki and salad, perfect for outdoor dining or lunch at work.
• Family-Style Feast: Serve components separately so everyone can build their own gyros, creating an interactive and fun meal experience with customizable toppings.
• Wine & Dine Pairing: Complement the gyros with a crisp white Greek wine like Assyrtiko or a light, refreshing lager to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

Storing Chicken Gyros and Salad for Later Enjoyment

• Store leftover chicken, tzatziki sauce, and Greek salad separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bag, storing for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm skillet-cooked chicken on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent drying. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, covering with damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stir well before serving and add small splash of olive oil to restore creamy texture. Discard if watery or shows signs of separation.

FAQs

• What makes Greek chicken gyros different from other chicken dishes?

Greek chicken gyros feature a unique marinade with yogurt, lemon, and oregano that tenderizes the meat and infuses it with Mediterranean flavors, creating a more complex and juicy chicken experience.

• Is tzatziki sauce authentic to Greek cuisine?

Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s a staple in Greek cooking, often served as a dip or condiment with various dishes, adding a cool and tangy element to meals.

• Can I use a different type of meat for gyros?

While traditionally made with lamb or chicken, you can substitute with pork or turkey. However, the marinade and cooking technique are key to achieving the authentic Greek flavor profile.

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce and Greek Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Homemade Greek chicken gyros showcase Mediterranean flavors with marinated grilled chicken nestled in warm pita bread. Crisp cucumber tzatziki and fresh Greek salad complete this classic street food experience you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 lbs (907 g) chicken breast, cut into pieces
• 4–6 Greek pita breads, naan bread, or flatbread

Chicken Marinade:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons oregano

Tzatziki Sauce and Salad Components:

• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1–2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely diced
• 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to drain
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cucumbers, peeled and diced
• 1/4 red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, diced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Feta cheese

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Instructions

1. Submerge chicken pieces in a harmonious blend of yogurt, zesty lemon juice, fragrant olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Allow the marinade to work its magic for a minimum of 30 minutes, with optimal flavor development occurring between 2-4 hours or ideally up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Craft the tzatziki sauce by combining yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, dill, and minced garlic. Thoroughly squeeze excess moisture from grated cucumber, then fold into the yogurt mixture. Taste and fine-tune seasonings to create a perfectly balanced sauce.
3. Construct the Greek salad by combining diced tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and gently toss. Crumble feta cheese over the top for an authentic touch.
4. For grilling: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until thoroughly cooked and slightly charred. Alternatively, in a skillet: Heat to medium-high with a touch of oil, searing chicken for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and completely cooked through.
5. Warm pita bread and layer with perfectly grilled chicken. Generously spread tzatziki sauce, top with the vibrant Greek salad, and optionally garnish with additional crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

• Marinating Magic: Let chicken soak in yogurt marinade overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness, allowing herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Cucumber Squeeze Technique: Always drain excess water from grated cucumber to prevent watery tzatziki sauce, ensuring a thick and creamy consistency.
• Skillet vs. Grill Flexibility: Choose cooking method based on available equipment, knowing both techniques will deliver delicious caramelized chicken with crispy edges.
• Dietary Adaptations: Swap pita for lettuce wraps to make gluten-free, or use plant-based chicken alternative for vegetarian version without compromising authentic Greek flavors.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg