Chicken Gyros Tzatziki Pita

This Chicken Gyro recipe gives you all the restaurant flavors you crave in your own kitchen. With juicy marinated chicken, warm pita, and bright fresh toppings, it is weeknight-friendly and brings the taste of Greece right to your table.

The first time I made this was for friends during a backyard cookout and everyone gathered around the grill picking at the juicy bits of chicken before we had even assembled the gyros. It instantly became our favorite way to share an easy meal.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs: these cuts stay juicy and absorb flavor well try to get organic or free range chicken for the best texture
• Olive oil: brings richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken use extra virgin for extra flavor
• White wine vinegar: gives a gentle tang and helps tenderize the meat a high quality vinegar makes the flavors pop
• Fresh garlic: adds a zippy savoriness always use freshly minced garlic for the best result
• Homemade Greek seasoning: packed with herbs and spices like oregano thyme rosemary and paprika mix your own for the brightest flavor or use a reputable store brand
• Fresh lemon juice: brightens all the flavors look for lemons that feel heavy for their size
• Kosher salt and cracked black pepper: season to taste after tasting the marinade different Greek seasonings can vary in saltiness
• Pita bread: warm and soft hold everything together homemade is excellent but high quality store bought flatbread will also work well
• Tzatziki sauce: cool creamy and garlicky brings the whole sandwich together homemade or a good store brand both work

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:

Combine olive oil white wine vinegar minced garlic Greek seasoning fresh lemon juice salt and pepper in a large zip top bag or a glass bowl Stir or shake the bag thoroughly so everything is well incorporated

Marinate the Chicken:

Add chopped chicken breast or thigh pieces into the bag Ensure every piece is coated Seal the bag and squeeze out extra air Place in the fridge and let marinate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor Occasionally turn the bag to redistribute the marinade

Grill the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess Thread the pieces onto skewers if using a grill or lay directly onto a hot grill pan Cook over medium high heat for about 4 minutes per side until the outside is well browned and the inside is cooked through and juicy Rest the chicken briefly before serving

Warm the Pitas:

While the chicken rests wrap the pita breads in a damp towel and warm gently in the microwave or grill quickly on the pan This softens them and makes wrapping much easier

Assemble the Gyros:

Layer grilled chicken into each pita Add sliced tomatoes crisp lettuce thinly sliced red onion and a spoonful of tzatziki sauce Let everyone choose their favorite toppings for a personalized meal

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I always look forward to slicing the fresh tomatoes for these gyros Their sweet flavor combined with the tangy tzatziki reminds me of late summer dinners on the patio when my family would pile their own gyros together with big smiles

Storage Tips

Keep leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days Store pita bread separate to prevent sogginess For quick lunches just reheat the chicken and warm the bread before adding fresh toppings Freeze marinated or cooked chicken in a freezer safe bag for up to 3 months Let thaw slowly in the fridge for best texture Tzatziki and veggies should always be served fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

Try boneless skinless thighs for even juicier chicken If you need dairy free skip the tzatziki or use a vegan alternative No pita bread Use butter lettuce cups or make everything into a Greek chicken salad bowl

Serving Suggestions

Serve your gyros with traditional sides like Greek salad with crisp cucumbers feta and olives Or pile on more veggies with a roasted veggie platter Add a scoop of hummus with extra pita chips for dipping and a handful of Kalamata olives for a true Greek feast

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Cultural and Historical Context

Gyros are a beloved Greek street food originally made with slow roasted lamb or pork on a vertical rotisserie This chicken version is inspired by the flavors of Greek souvlaki and makes the meal more approachable for home kitchens While chicken is not traditional it has become wildly popular due to its tenderness and bright flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For maximum flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the finished dish.

→ What are some traditional toppings?

Classic toppings include tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and creamy tzatziki. Add feta, cucumber, or olives for variety.

→ How should I warm the pita bread?

Warm pita in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel or briefly heat it in a dry skillet for softness and flexibility.

→ Are these good for meal prep or freezing?

Absolutely! Freeze marinated or cooked chicken ahead of time, then thaw and reheat when ready to assemble your gyros.

→ What side dishes go well with chicken gyros?

Serve with Greek salad, hummus, chickpea salad, or sautéed green beans to round out your meal.