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Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

These gyros feature yogurt-marinated chicken with a tangy feta-dill tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and warm pita, making them a perfect choice for family dinners and meal-prepping.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt for marinade
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced for marinade
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for marinade
  • 2 tablespoons Greek-style extra virgin olive oil for marinade
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano crushed between your palms
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs breasts OK, thighs preferred

For the Tzatziki

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt for tzatziki
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated and extremely well-drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for tzatziki
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for tzatziki
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for tzatziki
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Grandma’s secret!
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt for tzatziki
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for tzatziki

For Assembly

  • 6–8 pieces warm pita bread wraps
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced extra for topping
  • 1 red onion thinly sliced

Instructions
 

Marinade Preparation

  • In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup Greek yogurt, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, crushed dried oregano, cumin, paprika, coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
  • Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours; overnight yields the best tenderness and flavor.

Tzatziki Preparation

  • Grate the medium cucumber. Place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly until most moisture is removed, preventing watery tzatziki.
  • In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, the squeezed cucumber, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cover and chill.

Chicken Cooking

  • Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high (Alternatively, bake on a rimmed baking sheet at 400°F/200°C for 25–30 minutes).
  • Remove excess marinade and place thighs on the grill. Cook 6–7 minutes per side until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer for safety and precision.
  • Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips.

Assembly

  • Toss pitas on the grill for 20–30 seconds per side or warm in a dry skillet/oven for 5 minutes.
  • Spread a generous layer of feta-dill tzatziki on a warm pita. Add sliced chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion. Sprinkle extra feta if desired. Fold and serve immediately.

Notes

For dairy-free option, use coconut- or soy-based yogurt and omit feta. Lamb or pork can be used instead of chicken for traditional gyro flavor.
Keyword Chicken Gyros, Greek Dinner, Grilled Chicken, Mediterranean Recipe, Tzatziki