Irresistible Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki: A Mediterranean Feast at Home

Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki transport you straight to the sun-soaked streets of Greece with every single bite. Picture this: tender, herb-marinated chicken nestled in warm pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables and the most incredible creamy tzatziki sauce you’ve ever tasted.

Last summer, I found myself desperately craving the authentic gyros I’d enjoyed during a trip to Santorini, but my local Greek restaurant just wasn’t hitting the mark. That’s when I decided to recreate this Mediterranean masterpiece in my own kitchen – and let me tell you, the results were absolutely spectacular.

The magic happens when perfectly seasoned chicken meets that heavenly feta-enhanced tzatziki sauce. Unlike traditional tzatziki, this version gets an extra layer of richness from crumbled feta cheese, creating a creamy, tangy sauce that elevates every component of these gyros. Fresh vegetables add the perfect crunch, while warm pita bread brings everything together in harmonious, Mediterranean bliss.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade gyros recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without the hefty price tag or the need to leave your house. The chicken stays incredibly juicy thanks to using thighs instead of breasts, while the herb seasoning creates an authentic Greek flavor profile that’ll have your taste buds dancing. I love how quickly this meal comes together – perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

The creamy feta tzatziki is genuinely a game-changer. My family now requests this sauce for everything from grilled vegetables to simple chicken dinners. It’s become our go-to condiment, and I always make extra because it disappears so quickly! Explore more trending recipes here for additional Mediterranean-inspired dishes that’ll transform your dinner routine.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering chicken gyros with their signature creamy feta tzatziki:

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – these everyday ingredients transform into something absolutely extraordinary when combined with the right techniques. Find more quick weeknight recipes here for additional meal ideas that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the tzatziki. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Feta Tzatziki
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until the feta is well incorporated and the sauce is creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 4: Warm the Pita
Warm pita breads in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros
Spread a generous amount of creamy feta tzatziki on each pita. Add sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and red onion. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Exact Timing to make Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marination Time: 15 minutes (minimum)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Assembly Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

This efficient timing makes Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (serves 4):

Nutritional data based on USDA nutrient database. The high protein content from chicken thighs and Greek yogurt makes this meal exceptionally satisfying, while the moderate calorie count fits well into most balanced eating plans.

Healthier Alternatives

Transform your Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki to meet various dietary needs while maintaining incredible flavor:

For those following specific diets, consider using cauliflower wraps for keto dieters or dairy-free yogurt alternatives for lactose-intolerant individuals. Explore more healthy recipe ideas here for additional nutritious meal inspirations that don’t compromise on taste.

Serving Suggestions

Mediterranean Mezze Spread: Create an impressive mezze platter by serving your Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki alongside hummus, olives, dolmas, and grilled vegetables. This transforms a simple dinner into an authentic Mediterranean feast that’s perfect for entertaining guests or family gatherings.

Fresh Side Salads: Pair these gyros with a crisp Greek village salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and kalamata olives dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. The fresh, crunchy textures complement the rich, creamy tzatziki beautifully while adding extra nutrients to your meal.

Roasted Vegetable Accompaniments: Serve alongside roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant seasoned with herbs and olive oil. These add color, flavor, and additional fiber to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: The biggest mistake when making Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki is overcooking the chicken, which results in dry, tough meat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F, then remove from heat immediately. Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts, but they can still become tough if overcooked.

Watery Tzatziki Sauce: Many home cooks struggle with watery tzatziki that makes the pita soggy. Always use thick Greek yogurt and ensure your feta cheese is well-drained before crumbling. If your sauce seems too thin, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving.

Cold Pita Bread: Serving cold, stiff pita bread ruins the entire gyros experience. Always warm your pita breads just before assembly – they should be soft, pliable, and slightly warm to the touch. This simple step makes an enormous difference in the overall eating experience.

Storing Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover components separately in airtight containers for optimal freshness. Cooked chicken keeps for 3-4 days, while the creamy feta tzatziki maintains its quality for up to 5 days when properly refrigerated. Always store cut vegetables in separate containers to prevent moisture transfer and maintain crispness.

Freezing Guidelines: The seasoned chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, making this perfect for meal prep. Freeze the cooked, sliced chicken in portion-sized containers for quick weeknight meals. However, avoid freezing the tzatziki sauce as dairy products don’t freeze well and will separate when thawed.

Meal Prep Strategy: For efficient meal prep, cook the chicken and prepare the tzatziki up to 3 days in advance. Store everything separately and assemble fresh gyros when ready to eat. Pre-cut vegetables can be stored for 2-3 days, but wait to slice tomatoes until serving day to prevent excess moisture.

FAQs

Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki

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• Author: Julia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These Irresistible Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki bring authentic Greek flavors to your kitchen. Juicy marinated chicken, tangy feta-infused tzatziki, and fresh vegetables come together in warm pita for the ultimate Mediterranean experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Tzatziki:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• For Assembly:
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy. Chill until serving.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
4. Warm pita breads in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds.
5. To assemble, spread feta tzatziki on pita, top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor. For a lighter version, swap pita for lettuce wraps. Double the tzatziki — it’s perfect as a dip or sauce for grilled meats.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 gyro
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: chicken gyros, greek wrap, feta tzatziki, mediterranean recipe, easy lunch