Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Name: Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 medium cucumber; 2 cloves garlic; Salt; Warm pita bread; Sliced tomatoes; Shredded lettuce; Sliced red onion

Published: November 12, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make this dish in under an hour.
Flavor Explosion: The marinated chicken is packed with zesty lemon and olive oil, creating a mouthwatering taste.
Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add toppings like feta cheese for extra flavor.
Healthy Option: This recipe uses lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
Great for Meal Prep: Create several servings at once and enjoy throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Grill pan or skillet
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Knife: A sharp knife helps you cut chicken and veggies easily, ensuring even cooking.
Mixing bowl: This is essential for marinating the chicken thoroughly with flavors.
Grill pan or skillet: A good-quality grill pan gives your chicken those beautiful grill marks while keeping it juicy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 medium cucumber, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste

For Serving

Warm pita bread
Sliced tomatoes
Shredded lettuce
Sliced red onion

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start making your gyros, combine the olive oil and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Add the boneless chicken thighs and ensure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if possible for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare your tzatziki sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Mix well until combined. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble Your Gyros

To assemble your gyros, place sliced warm pita on plates. Layer with sliced chicken, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Serving Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is a delightful way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean. These gyros can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

Wrap it Up

In Pita Bread: Serve the marinated chicken and tzatziki wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic approach.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken and veggies.

Add Fresh Vegetables

Tomatoes and Onions: Sliced tomatoes and red onions add a juicy crunch that complements the chicken perfectly.
Crisp Cucumbers: Adding thin cucumber slices enhances the refreshing taste of your gyros.

Top it Off

Feta Cheese: Crumble some feta cheese on top for extra creaminess and a salty bite.
Olives: A few olives can provide a briny contrast to the flavors, enhancing your meal.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Perfecting your Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki involves attention to detail in both preparation and serving. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer if possible. This enhances the overall flavor.
Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil not only improves taste but also adds healthy fats.
Grill for Char: Grilling the chicken gives it a wonderful charred flavor. If you can’t grill, broiling works well too.
Make Your Own Tzatziki: Freshly made tzatziki tastes much better than store-bought. Use Greek yogurt, fresh cucumbers, garlic, and herbs.
Warm Your Pita: Lightly warming pita bread before serving makes it more pliable and delicious.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add more vegetables or toppings based on your preference for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Chicken Gyros can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil complements gyros perfectly.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the gyros.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs provide an authentic Mediterranean touch.
Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips makes for a great appetizer or side.
Tabbouleh Salad: This herby salad made from bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon is light yet filling.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled until tender bring out their natural sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best taste.
Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many pieces of chicken at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect char.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can diminish the dish’s quality. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
Forgetting to Preheat: Not preheating your grill or pan can result in uneven cooking. Ensure it’s hot before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can lead to dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Place cooled gyros in freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap gyros in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add gyros and cover, warming for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki?
Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is a delicious Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken served in pita bread with fresh veggies and a creamy cucumber sauce.

Can I substitute chicken with beef or lamb?
Yes! Beef or lamb can be used as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the meat chosen.

How do I make homemade tzatziki?
To make tzatziki, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki are perfect for meal prep. They store well and are easy to reheat.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Try making it today!

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Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Why You’ll Love This Recipe