Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

The Ultimate Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki – Mouthwatering & Simple!

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, flavorful gyro wrapped in soft pita bread, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce, and packed with juicy, marinated chicken. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean foods, this chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy, authentic, and perfect for a healthy dinner—especially during the summer when light, refreshing meals are a must.

As a passionate home cook, I’ve tested countless gyro recipes. I love how this recipe brings the flavors of Greece to my kitchen without needing fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or hosting a casual dinner party, this homemade gyro recipe will impress everyone at the table.

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What Makes Chicken Gyros So Special?

Gyros are one of Greece’s most beloved street foods, often made with pork, lamb, or chicken. While traditional gyros require a vertical rotisserie, this easy version delivers the same mouthwatering flavors using chicken thighs, a simple marinade, and a grill or stovetop pan.

Why use chicken thighs? They’re juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making them perfect for gyros. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can also use ground chicken to make a gyro-style patty instead.

The Secret to the Best Chicken Gyro Marinade

A flavorful marinade is the key to authentic Greek gyros. This combination of Greek-inspired ingredients tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with incredible taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Gyro Marinade Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

¼ cup Greek yogurt (for extra tenderness)

3 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Marinating Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.

2. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re fully coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

4. Before cooking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

How to Cook Chicken Gyros (Grill, Pan, or Oven)

Once marinated, cooking the chicken is simple. Choose your preferred method:

Grill Method:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Stovetop Method:

Heat a pan over medium-high heat with a little olive oil.

Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Oven Method:

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The Creamy Tzatziki Sauce – The Perfect Pairing

Tzatziki sauce is an essential part of an authentic Greek gyro. It’s creamy, tangy, and refreshingly cool.

Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients:

1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for best texture)

½ cucumber, grated and drained

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

¼ tsp salt

Tzatziki Instructions:

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a cheesecloth or paper towel.

2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Product Recommendation: Best Grill Pan for Indoor Cooking

Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan – This heavy-duty pan gives your chicken that perfect charred texture without needing an outdoor grill.

Get it on Amazon here – Perfect for year-round grilling!

Assembling Your Chicken Gyros

Now that everything is ready, it’s time to build the perfect gyro!

What You’ll Need:

Warm pita bread (store-bought or homemade)

Sliced marinated chicken

Tzatziki sauce

Sliced red onions

Diced tomatoes

Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Assembly Instructions:

1. Warm the pita bread in a dry pan for about 30 seconds per side.

2. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over the pita.

3. Add sliced chicken, red onions, tomatoes, and feta.

4. Fold and wrap with parchment paper to hold everything together.

5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Eat with Chicken Gyros?

Pairing your gyros with delicious Mediterranean foods enhances the experience. Here are some tasty sides:

Greek salad – Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta.

Roasted Greek potatoes – Crispy and seasoned with oregano and lemon.

Hummus & pita chips – A great appetizer before the main meal.

Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) – A classic Greek side dish.

Product Recommendation: The Best Greek Olive Oil

Laurel & Flame Fresh Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil – High-quality, cold-pressed olive oil that adds authentic Mediterranean flavor to your gyros and salads.

Shop it here – Elevate your cooking with real Greek olive oil!

Why This is the Perfect Healthy Dinner for Summer

This homemade gyro recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also a healthy dinner choice. Here’s why:

High in protein – Chicken and Greek yogurt make this meal satisfying and nutritious.

Rich in healthy fats – Olive oil and tzatziki provide good fats for a balanced diet.

Light & refreshing – Perfect for warm-weather meals without feeling too heavy.

Product Recommendation: Best Yogurt Strainer for Tzatziki

Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Strainer – Helps you make thick, creamy yogurt for homemade tzatziki sauce.

Buy it here – Get the perfect consistency for tzatziki every time!

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce recipe! This easy, authentic, and healthy dish is a must-try, whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a seasoned pro. With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can enjoy restaurant-quality gyros from the comfort of your home.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or pan), and transport your taste buds to Greece!

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Share your experience and your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!