Authentic Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Juicy, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, wrapped in warm pita and topped with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables — this is a Greek-inspired feast you’ll want to make again and again.

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)

• ½ medium cucumber, peeled, grated, and excess water squeezed out

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or mint

For Assembling the Gyros:

• 4 large pita breads (or Greek flatbreads)

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1–2 ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped

• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (or use lettuce if you prefer)

• Optional: crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, or pickled red onions

---

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken (Flavor Layering Begins)

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. This creates a fragrant marinade that will penetrate the chicken for maximum flavor.

2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, turning them to coat thoroughly in the marinade. You can also use a large zip-top bag for marinating to save dishes.

3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (or seal the bag) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1–2 hours. For the most flavorful results, marinate overnight.

Pro Tip: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts when grilling. They stay juicy and flavorful even if slightly overcooked.

---

2. Cook the Chicken (The Star of the Show)

1. Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a light drizzle of oil if using a skillet.

2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is key to locking in the juices.

4. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized chunks.

---

3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce (Cool, Creamy, and Tangy)

1. While the chicken cooks, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess moisture squeezed out using a cheesecloth or paper towels), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust salt, lemon, or garlic as needed.

3. For extra freshness, stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill or mint.

Make Ahead Tip: Tzatziki can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

---

4. Warm the Pitas (Soft & Flexible for Rolling)

1. Heat a dry skillet or grill pan over medium heat.

2. Warm each pita for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.

3. Alternatively, wrap pitas in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes.

---

5. Assemble the Gyros (Let’s Build!)

1. Lay a warm pita on a flat surface.

2. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce in the center.

3. Top with a portion of sliced chicken.

4. Add sliced red onion, tomato, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (or greens of your choice).

5. Optional: Add crumbled feta or olives for a richer flavor.

6. Roll the pita up like a wrap or fold it taco-style, and secure with parchment or foil if desired.

---

⏱️ Time Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to overnight

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes (not including marinating)

---

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~500 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbs: 30g

• Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on portion size and toppings.

---

️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve your chicken gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, or orzo pasta salad.

• For a more indulgent option, try them with a side of crispy fries tucked right into the gyro — a popular Greek street food twist!

---

Storage & Reheating

• Chicken: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

• Tzatziki: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Pitas: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated and reheated in a warm skillet.

---

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi, falafel, or marinated tofu.

• Wrap it Different: Use naan, tortillas, or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free or creative twist.