Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with Mediterranean charm and creamy, tangy goodness, look no further than Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki. This delightful recipe combines tender, herb-marinated chicken thighs with a luscious feta-infused tzatziki sauce that elevates every bite. The fresh vegetables add a crisp contrast, while warm pita bread wraps it all together for a meal that’s as comforting as it is vibrant. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki is easier than you think. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the juicy chicken providing hearty flavor, the creamy sauce adding a luscious tang, or the fresh veggies lending a bright crunch and color to the plate.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfect for juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender when cooked.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps marinate the chicken and gives it a beautiful golden sear.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano: A classic herb that imparts that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic punch to the marinade without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 4 pita breads: The perfect soft yet sturdy base to hold all the delicious fillings.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with sweetness and color for freshness.
• 1 cucumber, diced: Offers a cool crunch to balance the rich chicken and sauce.
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds sharpness and a lovely pop of purple color.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy foundation of the tzatziki sauce that keeps it light yet rich.
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Gives the tzatziki a tangy, slightly salty depth that makes it truly special.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with subtle acidity.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds fresh garlic zing to the creamy tzatziki.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal notes at the end.

How to Make Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This simple marinade coats the chicken thighs in layers of herbaceous and savory flavors. Add the chicken thighs into the mixture, making sure each piece is fully covered. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—this is the secret to juicy, tasty gyros that will have your kitchen smelling irresistible.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, aiming for a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking the chicken this way ensures it is both tender and succulent, with just the right amount of caramelization to bring out the rich flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Feta Tzatziki

While the chicken finishes cooking, combine the plain Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth, creating a creamy feta tzatziki sauce that tastes refreshingly tangy with hints of garlic and saltiness from the feta. This sauce is what makes the Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Assemble Your Gyros

Once the chicken is done, slice it into strips for easy biting. Lay out the pita breads and spread a generous layer of the creamy feta tzatziki over each one. Then, pile on the warm chicken strips, and top with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thin slices of red onion. Roll the pita bread to encase all the filling, and get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, fresh, and savory flavors.

How to Serve Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki

Garnishes

Adding fresh parsley sprigs or a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta on top instantly elevates the presentation and adds another layer of fresh, herbaceous flavor. You can even toss a few Kalamata olives or a dash of smoked paprika on the tzatziki to add a personalized twist.

Side Dishes

Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki pairs wonderfully with light Mediterranean sides like a Greek salad, lemon roasted potatoes, or even a simple plate of grilled vegetables. The key is to choose sides that complement the gyros’ vibrant and tangy notes without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a casual gathering, consider creating a gyro bar setup where guests can assemble their own gyros with bowls of toppings such as extra tzatziki, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta. For a dinner party, slicing the gyros into smaller wraps and serving them as appetizers alongside a refreshing tzatziki dip is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken, vegetables, and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate helps maintain the freshness and texture when reheating or assembling later.

Freezing

The cooked chicken can be frozen for longer storage, but avoid freezing the tzatziki as the texture might change upon thawing. Wrap the chicken tightly in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through but still juicy. Add fresh tzatziki right before serving to keep that creamy texture intact. Avoid reheating the tzatziki to preserve its cool, refreshing quality.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving, chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them so they don’t dry out.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese in the tzatziki?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can omit it or substitute with a crumbly goat cheese to maintain a creamy texture with a slightly different tang.

How spicy is this Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki?

This recipe is mild and meant to highlight fresh and tangy flavors, but you can easily add some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce if you love spice.

Can I make the marinade and tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight for even better flavor, and prepare the tzatziki sauce a few hours ahead, keeping it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What’s the best bread for gyros?

Traditional pita bread is ideal as it’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings. Look for fresh or lightly toasted pita to get the best texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki that makes every meal feel like a small celebration. The harmony of tender, herb-infused chicken and that irresistible creamy, tangy sauce wrapped in warm pita is such a joy to eat. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again for family and friends!

Print