If you’re searching for an easy dinner recipe that tastes fresh, wholesome, and restaurant-worthy, these Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki will become your new favorite weeknight meal. Picture this: tender, herby chicken grilled to perfection, wrapped in warm pita bread, and layered with juicy vegetables and a rich, tangy feta tzatziki sauce. This dish captures everything we love about healthy Mediterranean cooking simplicity, freshness, and big flavor. It’s the kind of family comfort food that’s equally perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or a quick dinner after work. And best of all, it’s budget-friendly, protein-packed, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a healthy weeknight dinner, need easy meal prep ideas, or want something that feels like a vacation to Greece, this recipe delivers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that everyone at the table will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep time.
- Healthy and flavorful: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and Greek yogurt all key elements of the Mediterranean diet.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make the chicken and tzatziki ahead of time for effortless weekday lunches.
- Family-approved: A crowd-pleasing meal everyone can customize with their favorite toppings.
- Authentic Mediterranean flavor: The oregano, lemon, and feta bring classic Greek taste to your kitchen.
Ingredient Breakdown
Each ingredient in these Greek chicken gyros plays a role in creating the perfect bite juicy, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Chicken Marinade – Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (1 lb): Juicy, tender, and flavorful. Thighs are ideal for gyros because they stay moist when grilled or pan-cooked. You can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Olive Oil (1 tbsp): The heart of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil helps lock in flavor and tenderness while adding healthy fats. Dried Oregano (2 tsp): Brings a warm, herby aroma that’s signature to Greek cuisine. Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds depth and savory balance to the marinade. Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
For the Gyro Wraps – Pita Bread (4 rounds): Soft, fluffy, and perfect for wrapping all your delicious fillings. Try whole wheat pita for extra fiber. Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness. Cucumber (1 cup, diced): Brings crunch and a cooling contrast to the warm chicken. Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Adds sharpness and color you can soak slices in lemon juice for a milder flavor.
For the Creamy Feta Tzatziki Sauce – Plain Greek Yogurt (1 cup): Thick and creamy, it’s the base of this tangy sauce high in protein and probiotics. Feta Cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Adds salty richness and body to the tzatziki, creating a luxurious twist on the classic. Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the sauce and balances the richness of the feta. Garlic (1 clove, minced): A bold flavor enhancer use fresh garlic for the best result. Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste for that perfect creamy balance. Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds color, freshness, and a pop of herby aroma.
Pro Tips for Perfect Gyros
Use chicken thighs for maximum flavor they stay moist and juicy. Marinate overnight for deeper flavor. Warm the pita before serving to make it soft and pliable. Chill the tzatziki for 30 minutes to enhance flavor. If you have a grill, use it to add authentic char and smokiness.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
Low-Carb Option: Skip the pita and serve over lettuce or cauliflower rice. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves. Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi or chickpeas. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade. Extra Creaminess: Mix avocado into the tzatziki for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your gyros with sides like Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes, or hummus. For drinks, chilled white wine or lemon iced tea pairs beautifully. These combinations turn this dish into a full, satisfying Mediterranean meal that works for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
Meal Prep: Cook and slice chicken up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Tzatziki: Keeps for up to 4 days; stir before using. Freezing: Cooked chicken freezes well for 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently. Assemble fresh before serving for the best texture.
Cultural Note
Traditional Greek gyros are made with pork or lamb cooked on a rotisserie, but this modern chicken version brings the same authentic flavors using everyday ingredients. It embodies the Mediterranean philosophy simple, healthy, and full of vibrant, natural flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but watch the cook time to prevent drying.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute the yogurt and feta with coconut or almond-based alternatives.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep components separate in airtight containers; reheat chicken before serving.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use grilled veggies, falafel, or tofu for a plant-based gyro.
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs, tossing to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F / 75°C). Let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- Prepare the Feta Tzatziki: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, feta cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Assemble the Gyros: Spread tzatziki on each pita, add sliced chicken, and top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Garnish with parsley, roll, and serve warm.
