Name: Grilled Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads; 1 cucumber, grated; 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

Print Recipe

The aroma of grilled chicken gyros with tzatziki wafts through the air like a siren’s call, beckoning everyone to the table. Juicy pieces of chicken, marinated in a medley of spices, dance on warm pita bread topped with a lush, creamy tzatziki that sings of cucumber and dill. perfect Mediterranean side dishes Each bite is an adventure, a vibrant journey through the Mediterranean that leaves you craving more.

I remember the first time I made grilled chicken gyros with tzatziki for my friends during a summer cookout. The sun was shining, and laughter filled the air as we gathered around the grill. Watching their faces light up with joy as they took their first bite was pure magic. spicy grilled kabobs These gyros are perfect for casual gatherings or cozy weeknights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish offers an explosion of flavors while being easy to prepare, making meal prep a breeze
You can customize it with your favorite toppings or sides
The vibrant colors and fresh aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Cooking these gyros has always brought people together in my life; I still remember my brother’s delighted grin when he tried them for the first time.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts for juicy goodness; feel free to adjust based on your guest list. stuffed chicken breast with feta.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and moisture in your marinade.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; skip the bottled stuff if possible.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key here; it infuses the chicken with aromatic intensity.
Dried Oregano: This Mediterranean herb gives a signature flavor; choose Greek oregano if available.
Pita Bread: Soft and warm pita pockets are essential; look for thicker styles that can hold all the fillings.
Cucumber: Use a refreshing cucumber for your tzatziki; English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing cucumber salad recipe.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt creates a creamy tzatziki that’s impossible to resist. delicious Greek yogurt pancakes.
Dill: Fresh dill adds brightness and depth; dried dill will work in a pinch but use less.
Salt and Pepper: Adjust seasoning to taste; they enhance every component of this delightful dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined. Submerge your chicken breasts in this zesty mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait!

Preheat Your Grill or Oven: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Grill or Bake the Chicken: Place your marinated chicken on the grill or baking sheet. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Let it rest before slicing!

Create Tzatziki Sauce : In another bowl, mix grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste it—does it scream “refreshing”? It should!

Assemble Your Gyros : Slice your grilled chicken into strips and layer them onto warm pita bread. Generously spoon over that glorious tzatziki sauce and add any extra toppings you fancy—lettuce, tomatoes, or even feta cheese!

Savor Every Bite!: Serve your gyros immediately while everything is still warm and fresh. Take that first bite—it’s like summer on a plate! Enjoy every crunchy and creamy moment as you relish each mouthful.

Now that you’ve crafted these incredible grilled chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce from scratch, prepare yourself for compliments flying your way! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy beef wraps recipe.

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor, then grill over medium-high heat for juicy perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for lamb or turkey, and experiment with different herbs like dill or oregano for a twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover gyros in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain juiciness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken overnight; it’s worth the wait!
Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking, and remember to let your meat rest before slicing for juicy results

Sharing my grilled chicken gyros with friends once led to a spontaneous dance party in my kitchen—who knew tzatziki could inspire such moves?

FAQs

FAQ

How long should I marinate chicken for gyros?

Marinate your chicken for at least one hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Lamb or turkey works wonderfully in grilled chicken gyros with tzatziki.

What toppings are good for gyros?

Fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions pair perfectly with grilled chicken gyros.