Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe

Introduction

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these chicken gyros topped with a creamy feta tzatziki sauce. This dish combines juicy, seasoned chicken with refreshing cucumber and tangy feta to create a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• Red onion slices (optional)
• Tomato slices (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Step 2: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
3. Step 3: While the chicken cooks, prepare the creamy feta tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, diced cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill in a bowl. Stir well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Warm the pita breads briefly in a pan or oven. Place sliced chicken on each pita, then add the creamy feta tzatziki sauce on top. Add optional red onion and tomato slices if desired.
5. Step 5: Fold the pita around the filling and serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer tzatziki sauce.
• Add chopped fresh mint to the tzatziki for a bright, herbal note.
• Swap chicken for lamb or beef strips for a different protein option.
• Serve with a side of crispy fries or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a pan or microwave to prevent drying out. Assemble gyros fresh before serving to keep the pita bread from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tzatziki instead of making the creamy feta version?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki works well, but mixing in crumbled feta adds a delicious tang and creaminess that enhances the traditional flavor.

What is the best way to warm pita bread?

Warm pita bread in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute per side or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent it from becoming chewy.

Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe

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4.7 from 90 reviews

This Mediterranean Chicken Gyros recipe features tender, marinated chicken cooked to perfection and wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy feta tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Feta Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cucumber, finely grated and drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly

• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• Fresh parsley or additional dill, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Make the Feta Tzatziki Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water), minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until creamy and set aside to chill.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
5. Warm the Pita: Briefly warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Gyros: Lay out each pita and layer with shredded lettuce, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a generous spoonful of creamy feta tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill as desired.
7. Serve: Fold the pita around the fillings and serve immediately for a delicious Mediterranean meal.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade.
• Make sure to drain the grated cucumber well to prevent watery sauce.
• You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Leftover chicken and sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted potatoes for a fuller meal.

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken gyros, creamy feta tzatziki, Greek chicken wrap, easy chicken gyro recipe, healthy gyros