Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki – Fresh, Bold & Satisfying

Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki are a flavor-packed street food staple turned wholesome home-cooked meal. Tender marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread, topped with crunchy veggies and a tangy, creamy feta-laced tzatziki — it’s a handheld feast that hits every savory note.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, summer grilling, or feeding a crowd. Each bite brings a balance of juicy, herbed chicken, crisp cucumber, cool yogurt, and the salty pop of feta. And best of all? It’s totally customizable and easy to prep ahead.

Ingredients Overview

This dish is all about balance — herbs, spice, acid, and creamy textures come together in harmony.

For the Chicken

• Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work well when marinated properly.

• Olive Oil: Helps the marinade coat and cling to the chicken.

• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize.

• Garlic: Fresh and pungent for depth.

• Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and slight tang to the marinade.

• Dried Oregano, Paprika, Cumin: Classic Mediterranean spices.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For the Creamy Feta Tzatziki

• Greek Yogurt: Thick, tangy base — use full-fat for best texture.

• Cucumber: Grated and drained for crunch and freshness.

• Garlic: One clove is enough — it goes a long way.

• Lemon Juice: Adds acid to balance the creaminess.

• Fresh Dill or Mint: Optional but adds herbal lift.

• Crumbled Feta: The twist that makes this tzatziki rich and savory.

For the Gyro Assembly

• Pita Bread or Flatbread: Warm and soft, perfect for folding.

• Tomatoes, Red Onion, Lettuce: Fresh, crunchy contrast to warm chicken.

• Optional Extras: Kalamata olives, pickled red onion, hummus, or hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts

• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1½ tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl or zip-top bag.

2. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for max flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken

• Grill: Preheat to medium-high. Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through.

• Stovetop: Sear in a hot skillet with a bit of oil, 5–6 minutes per side.

• Oven: Bake at 425°F for 20–22 minutes, broiling the last 2 minutes for color.

Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

3. Make the Creamy Feta Tzatziki

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• ½ English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Stir well and chill for 15–30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

4. Assemble the Gyros

1. Warm pita or flatbread until soft and pliable.

2. Layer sliced chicken, tzatziki, tomatoes, onion, and lettuce down the center.

3. Add olives, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few chili flakes if desired.

4. Fold and serve immediately.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

 

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the chicken marinade or serve with harissa.

• Make it Low-Carb: Serve the chicken and toppings over a bed of greens or cauliflower rice.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled halloumi, falafel, or marinated tofu.

• Gluten-Free: Use GF flatbreads or lettuce wraps.

• Meal Prep Tip: Marinate and cook chicken in advance. Store separately from tzatziki and veggies until ready to assemble.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

These gyros are versatile and ideal for:

• Grilling Season Cookouts

• Lunch Prep Bowls

• Weeknight Dinners

• Family-Style Mediterranean Feasts

• Picnics or Lunchboxes (wrap in foil)

Pair with:

• Greek Lemon Potatoes

• Tabbouleh or Couscous Salad

• Chilled Watermelon & Feta Salad

• Sparkling Water with Lemon or Mint Iced Tea

Nutritional & Health Notes

This meal offers a balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats. Using Greek yogurt in both the marinade and sauce adds probiotics and calcium, while grilled chicken keeps it light.

Per gyro (with toppings and sauce):

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbs: ~30g

• Fat: ~20g

• Fiber: ~3g

To reduce calories:

• Use low-fat yogurt

• Skip the pita and serve as a bowl

• Use chicken breast and minimal oil

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

A1: Yes, but adding crumbled feta to your own mix gives a creamier, more savory twist that’s worth the extra effort.

Q2: Can I cook the chicken in the air fryer?

A2: Definitely. Air fry at 375°F for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway. Check that internal temp hits 165°F.

Q3: How long does the tzatziki last?

A3: It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?

A4: Yes — freeze the marinated chicken raw or cooked. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q5: What’s the difference between gyros and shawarma?

A5: Both are spiced meat wraps, but gyros are Greek (typically served with tzatziki and on pita), while shawarma is Middle Eastern, often using spicier marinades and served with garlic sauce or tahini.

Q6: Can I make this dairy-free?

A6: Yes — use coconut yogurt or almond-based yogurt and skip the feta. The result will still be flavorful and creamy.

Q7: Is this good for meal prep?

A7: Absolutely. Prep all components ahead and store separately. Assemble just before eating for best texture.

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