When I want a fresh, bold, and satisfying meal wrapped up in a warm pita, I make these Mediterranean chicken gyros with creamy feta tzatziki. The marinated chicken is juicy and perfectly seasoned, the toppings are crisp and refreshing, and the feta-infused tzatziki brings it all together with a cool, tangy finish. It’s like a trip to a Greek taverna—without leaving my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish for how vibrant and customizable it is. The chicken is packed with Mediterranean spices, the creamy feta tzatziki adds a rich tang, and the crunchy vegetables make each bite feel balanced and fresh. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these gyros come together easily and taste even better than takeout. Everything can be prepped ahead, which makes dinnertime a breeze.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken marinade:
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Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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Olive oil
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Lemon juice
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Garlic (minced)
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Dried oregano
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Paprika
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Ground cumin
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Salt and black pepper
For the feta tzatziki:
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Greek yogurt
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Cucumber (grated and drained)
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Garlic (minced)
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Crumbled feta cheese
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Lemon juice
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Fresh dill or mint
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Olive oil
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Salt and pepper
For serving:
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Pita bread or flatbread
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Sliced tomatoes
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Sliced red onions
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Shredded lettuce or arugula
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Sliced cucumber
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Optional: kalamata olives or pickled onions
Directions
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I start by marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. I cover and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more flavor.
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While the chicken marinates, I make the feta tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and crumbled feta. I stir in chopped dill or mint and season with salt and pepper to taste. I chill it in the fridge to let the flavors meld.
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I grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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I warm the pita bread and layer on the sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and a generous dollop of the creamy feta tzatziki.
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I wrap them up and serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4–6 gyros, depending on portion size.
Prep time takes me about 20 minutes, marinating time is 30 minutes to overnight, and cooking time is around 15 minutes. Total time is about 1 hour, or less if I prep ahead.
Variations
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I swap the chicken for grilled lamb, beef, or falafel when I want to switch things up.
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For a spicy version, I add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.
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I sometimes add roasted red peppers or a smear of hummus for extra flavor.
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For a low-carb version, I serve everything in lettuce wraps or over a salad bowl.
Storage/reheating
I store leftover chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, I warm it gently in a skillet or microwave. The tzatziki is best cold and should not be frozen, as the texture changes. The gyros are best assembled just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes, but I love making my own with feta for a richer, creamier flavor. It only takes a few minutes and tastes so much fresher.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
I prefer boneless thighs for juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well if I don’t overcook them.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely. Grilling gives it even more flavor with a charred, smoky edge that’s perfect for gyros.
Is this meal good for meal prep?
Yes, I marinate and cook the chicken ahead of time, then assemble fresh gyros during the week. The tzatziki also keeps well for a few days.
Can I make it dairy-free?
I’ve used dairy-free yogurt and skipped the feta in the tzatziki for a great dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Mediterranean chicken gyros with creamy feta tzatziki are one of my favorite ways to enjoy a fresh, filling, and flavorful meal at home. The juicy spiced chicken, crisp veggies, and cool, tangy sauce all wrapped in soft pita make for a handheld delight I come back to again and again. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and perfect for sharing.
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Delight: A Flavorful Handheld Feast
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
- Yield: 4–6 gyros
- Category: Main Course, Wraps, Mediterranean
- Method: Grilled, Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Description
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki are a bold and refreshing handheld meal featuring marinated grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy homemade tzatziki sauce with feta. Wrapped in warm pita bread, these Greek-inspired gyros are perfect for an easy dinner, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- For the chicken marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic, minced
- Dried oregano
- Paprika
- Ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper
- For the feta tzatziki:
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and drained
- Garlic, minced
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon juice
- Fresh dill or mint
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- For serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Shredded lettuce or arugula
- Sliced cucumber
- Optional: Kalamata olives, pickled onions
Instructions
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Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add chicken, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).
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For the tzatziki: Mix yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and feta. Stir in dill or mint, season with salt and pepper, and chill.
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Cook chicken on a grill or skillet over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Let rest, then slice.
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Warm pita bread. Layer chicken, fresh vegetables, and feta tzatziki inside.
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Wrap and serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute lamb, beef, or falafel for the chicken.
- Add chili flakes or cayenne to the marinade for heat.
- Include roasted red peppers or hummus for extra flavor.
- Use lettuce wraps or salad bowls for a low-carb version.
- Make tzatziki dairy-free with plant-based yogurt and omit feta.
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