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Flavorful Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe with Easy Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

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A quick and easy Greek chicken gyros recipe featuring juicy, herb-infused chicken thighs paired with a smooth, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
  • ½ medium cucumber, finely grated and drained
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 46 pita breads or flatbreads
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Cherry tomatoes or sliced tomatoes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or extra dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
  3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate the cucumber finely, then squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and salt. Stir gently until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until seared and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Let rest for a few minutes.
  5. Warm the Pita Breads: Warm pita in a dry skillet or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable.
  6. Assemble the Gyros: Slice rested chicken into strips. Spread tzatziki on warm pita, add chicken strips, top with sliced red onions, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Fold or roll and serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) for best flavor. Squeeze grated cucumber well to avoid watery tzatziki. Avoid overcrowding pan when cooking chicken to get a good sear. Use thighs for juiciness. Fresh herbs and good olive oil enhance flavor. Can substitute pita with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free tzatziki, use coconut or almond yogurt with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken gyros, tzatziki sauce, easy Greek recipe, chicken thighs, Mediterranean, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipe