Name: Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 65 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant and flavor-packed meal that feels like a sunny Mediterranean escape, I can’t recommend the Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe enough. This dish brings together tender, marinated chicken thighs nestled inside warm, soft pita bread, layered with a luscious, tangy feta-infused tzatziki sauce and topped with crisp, colorful fresh veggies. It’s the perfect balance of juicy, creamy, and crunchy that feels indulgent but fresh and bright all at once. Whether you’re cooking for friends or treating yourself, this gyro recipe is a joyful celebration of Mediterranean flavors that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan with six golden brown pieces of cooked seasoned chicken, each showing some crusty browned spots and a slightly glossy oily texture, is sitting on a stove top. In the background, there are two blurred metal saucepans and a bowl on the white marbled kitchen surface, holding cooked food but out of focus. The chicken pieces are arranged in a loose circle with varying shapes and sizes, showing some char marks and a crispy, textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the classic gyro profile—from the aromatic oregano seasoning the chicken to the creamy feta blended right into the tzatziki for an extra burst of tanginess. These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they absorb the marinade perfectly for a flavorful bite every time.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken well and gives the meat a lovely sear in the pan.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: The signature Mediterranean herb that infuses the chicken with a classic savory note.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a deep, aromatic punch without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
4 pita breads: Soft and pillowy, these act as the perfect vessel for all the delicious fillings.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bright and juicy, they add a refreshing pop of color and sweetness.
1 cucumber, diced: Crunchy and cooling, it balances the rich feta tzatziki beautifully.
1 red onion, thinly sliced: Sharp and slightly sweet, it adds texture and zing.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base of the tzatziki, providing tang and luscious mouthfeel.
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Classic Mediterranean flavor that makes the tzatziki luxuriously creamy and savory.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the tzatziki with fresh citrus notes.
1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the tzatziki with a slight spicy warmth.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a final burst of freshness and vibrant green color.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a simple yet flavorful marinade. Toss the boneless chicken thighs in this mixture and let them soak up all those Mediterranean notes for at least 30 minutes. This marinating step is essential because it ensures the chicken will be juicy inside and perfectly spiced, setting the stage for that signature gyro taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet on medium-high and cook your marinated chicken thighs for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) so the chicken is cooked through but remains tender and juicy. The aroma at this point is heavenly, and you’ll know the base of your gyro is ready.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Feta Tzatziki

While the chicken cooks, whip together a luscious tzatziki sauce by blending Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This twist on classic tzatziki adds an extra layer of tangy richness with the feta, making it irresistibly delicious and the perfect counterpart to your savory chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

Once your chicken is cooked and rested, slice it into thin strips. Warm your pita breads slightly, then spread a generous layer of that creamy feta tzatziki all over the pita. Pile on the chicken strips, then top them with fresh cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion for color and crunch. Roll up the pita snugly, and get ready for a mouthwatering bite that’s bursting with layered Mediterranean flavors.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe

The image shows three grilled chicken wraps placed close together on a wooden board. Each wrap has a soft, slightly browned flatbread folded around layers beginning with fresh green lettuce at the bottom, followed by chunks of grilled chicken with a dark brown, lightly charred texture. Above the chicken, there are slices of red cherry tomatoes and dark purple olives. On top, there is a thick layer of white yogurt sauce with small green herb pieces sprinkled over it. A lemon half with bright yellow skin rests beside the wraps. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a beautiful, vibrant finishing touch both in flavor and appearance. You can also add a squeeze of extra lemon juice or a dash of paprika for a slight smoky warmth. These little touches not only enhance the presentation but elevate every bite with fresh brightness and unexpected zest.

Side Dishes

This gyro shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a simple Greek salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or even warm lentil soup for a hearty Mediterranean spread. If you want to keep things fresh, a colorful tabbouleh or baked falafel on the side also complements the flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the gyros deconstructed on a platter with small bowls of tzatziki, marinated chicken, and veggies so guests can build their own. Another idea is to cut the assembled gyros in half and secure each piece with a toothpick, making them great for casual entertaining or packed lunches. Wrapping them tightly in foil keeps them warm and ready to enjoy on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate if possible—the chicken, tzatziki, and veggies—to maintain their best texture and freshness when reheated or served again.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. Freezing won’t affect the seasoning, so you’ll still get all those delicious Mediterranean flavors when you’re ready to make another batch of the Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe.

Reheating

The best way to reheat the chicken is gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep it juicy while warming through. Avoid microwaving the tzatziki sauce; instead, add it fresh when serving. Reheating the pita wrapped in foil in the oven will help it stay soft and warm without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful thanks to their higher fat content, which is perfect for this gyro recipe.

Is there a way to make the tzatziki dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use a vegan feta or omit it altogether. The lemon juice and garlic will still give you that signature tangy, fresh flavor.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating the chicken for 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight, will deepen the flavor and make it even more tender.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking?

Definitely! Grilling imparts a fantastic smoky flavor that complements the Mediterranean spices. Just be sure to watch the heat so the chicken cooks through without drying out.

What type of pita bread is best for this recipe?

Soft, freshly made pita or pocket pita works best since they hold the fillings nicely without cracking. You can also use whole wheat pita for a heartier, healthier option.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to infuse your meals with vibrant Mediterranean sunshine, the Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s joyful, straightforward, and endlessly satisfying—perfect for weekday dinners or casual weekends with friends. Once you try it, I bet it’ll become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!