Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Feta

These Mediterranean chicken gyros with creamy feta tzatziki are my go-to for weeknights when I crave something fresh but still comforting. Each bite brings a burst of savory marinated chicken, cool veggies, and that irresistible tang of yogurt and feta. Making gyros at home means you control both the flavor and the quality, and nothing beats eating them warm from your own kitchen.

My family started asking for these after one memorable summer picnic. Now they have become the most requested dinner during busy weeks.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: choose chicken with a little fat for juicier results than breast
• Olive oil: often labeled extra virgin for best flavor and added richness during marinating
• Dried oregano: classic Mediterranean herb that imparts signature aroma and warmth
• Garlic powder: makes seasoning and marinating effortless look for a garlic powder that is pure with no added fillers
• Salt and pepper: season generously for bright and balanced flavor use freshly cracked pepper when possible
• Pita breads: pillowy and flexible enough for rolling look for thickest freshest pitas at your bakery or market
• Cherry tomatoes: sweeter and less watery than regular tomatoes slice them to avoid soggy gyros
• Cucumber: crisp texture and refreshing bite choose smaller firm cucumbers and dice for easier eating
• Red onion: thinly sliced for mild crunch soak in cold water for 10 minutes if you want to mellow the flavor
• Plain Greek yogurt: creates the creamy tzatziki base pick full fat yogurt for extra richness and tang
• Feta cheese: crumbled for salty tang blends right into the sauce look for block feta in brine for best taste
• Lemon juice: adds zippy brightness freshly squeezed juice is best
• Garlic clove: minced boosts tzatziki depth go for plump firm cloves

How to Make It

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine olive oil oregano garlic powder salt and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and make sure each piece is fully coated. Let marinate in the fridge at least thirty minutes for flavorful juicy chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a sturdy skillet on medium high. Lay chicken pieces flat without crowding. Cook five to seven minutes per side until a deep golden color forms and the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Let rest before slicing.

Prepare the Feta Tzatziki:

In a small bowl stir together Greek yogurt crumbled feta lemon juice minced garlic salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as you wish.

Slice Chicken and Assemble:

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Lay pita breads flat and spread feta tzatziki generously over each. Top with tomato halves cucumber dice and red onion slices. Pile chicken on and roll up tightly.

Enjoy Immediately:

These gyros are best eaten fresh while the chicken is juicy and pitas are warm.

Feta is my star ingredient here. Its salty creaminess elevates the sauce to something my kids now want to dip everything in. I remember my aunt making thick slabs of homemade feta on summer visits and that flavor always reminds me of family meals outdoors.

Flavor Boosters

For an extra tangy sauce add a few chopped fresh dill fronds. Warming the pita directly over a flame adds toasty depth. Use in season tomatoes or grill zucchini and eggplant for a richer Mediterranean flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of roasted potatoes tossed in lemon and oregano. These gyros are also wonderful wrapped in foil for easy lunches or picnics. Add arugula or spinach for a fresh crunch and extra color.

Creative Twists

For dairy free gyros opt for coconut yogurt and omit the feta. Swap pita for naan or tortillas in a pinch. Try adding thinly sliced radishes in spring or grilled chicken outdoors in summer for smoky notes.

These gyros always disappear fast at our table, a testament to their wide appeal. Try making a gyro bar for your next gathering, and watch everyone build their own with excitement!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal as they stay tender and absorb marinades well, enhancing the overall flavor.

→ How can I make the tzatziki sauce creamier?

Using full-fat Greek yogurt and ensuring feta cheese is finely crumbled helps achieve a rich and creamy texture in the sauce.

→ What is the best method to cook the chicken evenly?

Cooking the marinated chicken over medium-high heat in a skillet for 5-7 minutes per side ensures it’s cooked through without drying out.

→ Can I use other herbs besides oregano?

Yes, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used to add different flavor notes, though oregano provides the classic Mediterranean touch.

→ How should I assemble the gyros for best flavor?

Spread a generous layer of tzatziki on the pita, add sliced chicken, then top with fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for balanced flavors and textures.