Mediterranean Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce & Greek Salad

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Mediterranean Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce & Greek Salad

Description

Mediterranean Greek Chicken Gyros are a vibrant, flavor-packed dish inspired by traditional Greek street food. Juicy marinated chicken is grilled or pan-seared, then wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with creamy homemade tzatziki sauce and a crisp Greek salad. This dish is fresh, protein-rich, and perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into strips or chunks

  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt

  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 medium cucumber, grated and moisture squeezed out

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional but traditional)

  • Salt to taste

Greek Salad

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 large cucumber, diced

  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted

  • ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Salad Dressing

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 6–8 pita breads (or flatbreads)

  • Optional toppings: extra feta, sliced red onion, fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

  2. Add chicken and toss until fully coated.

  3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–12 hours in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

  1. Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, and salt.

  2. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

3. Make the Greek Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.

  2. Whisk dressing ingredients separately and toss gently with the salad.

  3. Chill until ready to serve.

4. Cook the Chicken

  • Grill: Cook over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side.

  • Pan-sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook until golden and cooked through.

  • Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, broiling the last few minutes for color.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Assemble the Gyros

  1. Warm pita bread.

  2. Add chicken, Greek salad, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki.

  3. Fold or wrap and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Authentic gyro meat is traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but this method delivers similar flavor at home.

  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.

  • Let tzatziki rest longer for deeper flavor.

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t skip the yogurt in the marinade—it tenderizes the chicken.

  • Drain cucumber well to prevent watery tzatziki.

  • Warm pita directly on the stovetop for better texture.

  • For smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people

  • Serving Size: 1 gyro with salad

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