Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki

Nothing quite brings the vibrant flavors of Greece into your kitchen like Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki. This delicious recipe is not only bursting with Mediterranean goodness, but it also captures the essence of a summer night, no matter the season. Perfectly seasoned, tender chicken wrapped with fresh veggies and a creamy, tangy tzatziki, these gyros are simple to assemble and a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just indulging in a cozy night in, these gyros will transport your taste buds to beautiful Greece.

Why Make This Recipe

Bold Mediterranean flavors that come together in no time.
It’s a fun and interactive meal that everyone can customize to their liking.

If you’re searching for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal effort, this Chicken Gyros recipe is your answer.

How to Make Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki

Let’s embark on the culinary journey of creating these delightful Chicken Gyros. With a few straightforward steps, you’ll be serving up street food-style goodness right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To prepare Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Pita bread
Sliced tomatoes
Cucumber slices
Red onion, sliced
Feta cheese, crumbled

For Tzatziki:

1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber (grated and squeezed dry)
1 clove garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt to taste

Directions

Creating these Chicken Gyros is as easy as following these steps:

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and marinate for 15 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Once marinated, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, ensuring it cooks thoroughly and finishes with a golden-brown sear.
As the chicken cooks, prepare the tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in another bowl. Mix well until everything is combined.
Warm the pita bread in a pan or oven until soft and pliable.
Now it’s time to assemble the gyros! Place your sautéed chicken into the warm pita, followed by slices of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
Drizzle the tangy tzatziki sauce over the top, roll the pita tightly, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Storage Tips for Chicken Gyros

To maximize the freshness of your chicken gyros, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate any leftover chicken gyros in an airtight container for 3–4 days at a temperature of 40°F.
If you have extra tzatziki, it can be stored in the fridge for 3–5 days in an airtight container.
Pita bread is best stored in a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken, which can be done for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Gyros

When it comes to serving your chicken gyros, consider these ideas to elevate the experience:

With a Side Salad: A light Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions dressed in olive oil and lemon complements the richness of the chicken gyros.
Add More Dips: Serve with additional dips like hummus or baba ghanoush to create a mezze-style feast.
Pair with Lemon Rice: Fluffy lemon rice or a lemon herb couscous adds an extra burst of flavor and makes for a hearty meal.
Make it a Platter: Create a gyros platter for family or friends where everyone can build their own with assorted Veggies and sauces.

Tips to Make Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki

Would you like to perfect your gyros game? Here are some quick tips:

Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the fridge.
Sauté Over Medium-High Heat: Cooking at a slightly higher temperature helps to achieve a nice sear and caramelization on the chicken.
Add Spice or Heat: For those who prefer a little kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinade or serve spicy feta cheese on the side.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re feeling adventurous or have specific dietary needs, consider these variations:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi or marinated grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and portobello mushrooms for a flavorsome vegetarian gyros.
Different Meats: While chicken is delicious, you could try lamb, beef, or even pork for a unique twist on the classic gyro. Each provides its own flavor profile, making for an exciting experience.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before for enhanced flavor. Additionally, tzatziki can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Certainly! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier gyro due to their higher fat content, making for an even more flavorful filling.

How do I make it spicier?

For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tzatziki, or mix in some harissa paste with the chicken marinade for a Mediterranean kick.

What can I serve on the side?

Fried potatoes, a simple green salad with feta, or even stuffed grape leaves make excellent accompaniments to your gyros.

How can I ensure moist chicken?

To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the heat and let it rest a few minutes before placing it in your pita.

Nutritional Info

When planning your meals, understanding the nutritional aspects is important. Here’s a basic breakdown of the nutrients per serving:

Calories: Approximately 450-500
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g

Cooking Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki not only leads to a fun dining experience but is also a relatively balanced meal option when enjoyed with fresh ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the perfect Chicken Gyros, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Skipping the Marination: Don’t overlook marinating the chicken; it’s essential for flavor and tenderness.
Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Chicken cooks quickly, and dry chicken is a disappointment.
Forgetting to Dry the Cucumber for Tzatziki: Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber to prevent a watery tzatziki.

Conclusion

Embarking on the culinary adventure of making Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki is sure to brighten your kitchen with delightful aromas and satisfying flavors. This dish offers flexibility with ingredients, ensuring you can tailor them to suit everyone’s preferences. Whether you’re indulging in a casual family dinner or presenting this dish at a weekend gathering, you’ll be met with smiles and contentment. Easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and beautiful to present, this recipe is bound to earn a cherished spot in your recipe book. Enjoy the journey, and bon appétit!