Greek Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki
A Greek Chicken Gyro is a classic Mediterranean street food made with juicy marinated chicken, warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a creamy yogurt-based sauce. This version includes a rich Creamy Feta Tzatziki, combining the traditional tzatziki flavor with salty feta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
This dish is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or dinner. The chicken is marinated in herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, then grilled or pan-seared and wrapped in soft pita with crisp vegetables and sauce.
Time Required
Stage
Time
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Marination Time
30 minutes – 2 hours
Cooking Time
12–15 minutes
Assembly Time
5 minutes
Total Time
~1 hour (including marination)
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken
500 g boneless chicken thighs or breasts (sliced strips)
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
For Creamy Feta Tzatziki
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cup grated cucumber (water squeezed out)
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or mint)
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Gyros Wrap
4 pita breads or flatbreads
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 tomato (sliced)
½ red onion (thin slices)
½ cucumber (sliced)
Optional: olives or pickled onions
👨🍳 Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken strips and mix well.
Cover and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
This step allows the herbs and lemon to tenderize the chicken and add deep flavor.
Make the Creamy Feta Tzatziki
In a bowl combine Greek yogurt and grated cucumber.
Add feta cheese, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill.
Mix until creamy.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
The feta gives the sauce a tangy and slightly salty flavor.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken.
Cook for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Remove and rest for a few minutes.
The chicken should be juicy with slightly crispy edges.
Warm the Pita
Warm the pita breads in:
a skillet for 30 seconds per side, or
a microwave for 20 seconds.
Warm pita makes the wrap soft and flexible.
Assemble the Gyros
Lay a warm pita on a plate.
Add lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and cucumber.
Place cooked chicken on top.
Spoon generous Creamy Feta Tzatziki over the chicken.
Fold or wrap the pita like a sandwich.
Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Greek chicken gyros with:
Greek salad
Lemon rice
Roasted potatoes
French fries (traditional gyro style)
Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
480 kcal
Protein
38 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
4 g
Values may vary depending on ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes. Chicken breast works well, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
What is the difference between Gyros and Shawarma?
Gyros are Greek and usually seasoned with oregano, lemon, and garlic, while shawarma uses Middle Eastern spices like cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes.
Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead.
Prepare tzatziki 1 day in advance and keep refrigerated.
Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Yes. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for about 12 minutes, shaking halfway.
What bread is best for gyros?
Soft Greek pita bread works best because it is thick and fluffy.