Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Delight

Tender, herb-infused chicken wrapped in warm, pillowy pita and crowned with a cool, tangy feta tzatziki creates a handheld Mediterranean masterpiece. This chicken gyro transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, as the aromatic oregano-marinated meat pairs perfectly with the creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce enriched with crumbled feta. Every bite delivers a beautiful contrast of temperatures, textures, and flavors that transports you straight to a sun-drenched Greek taverna without leaving your kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a summer when travel plans to Greece were canceled unexpectedly. Determined to experience Mediterranean flavors at home, I experimented with various marinades and tzatziki variations until finding the perfect combination. The first time I served these gyros, my brother-in-law who studied abroad in Athens declared them better than many he'd had in Greece! What makes them special is the addition of feta directly into the tzatziki, which creates a creamier, more complex sauce that elevates the entire dish. Now these gyros have become my go-to when hosting friends—they're always impressed by the flavors, never realizing how simple they are to prepare.

Fresh Mediterranean Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: Creates the protein-rich foundation—marinating it properly ensures juicy, flavorful meat that remains tender
• Greek Yogurt: Provides the creamy base for tzatziki—full-fat varieties offer the richest texture and tangy flavor
• Cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness—removing excess moisture prevents watery tzatziki
• Feta Cheese: Transforms ordinary tzatziki into something special—its salty, tangy notes enhance both the sauce and overall flavor
• Fresh Garlic: Infuses both marinade and sauce with aromatic intensity—mincing it finely ensures even distribution
• Dried Oregano: Delivers authentic Greek flavor to the chicken—crushing it between your fingers releases more essential oils
• Pita Bread: Creates the perfect portable vessel—warming it properly keeps it soft and pliable for wrapping
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Ties all flavors together with fruity richness—higher quality oils make a noticeable difference

Simple Preparation

Marinate The Chicken

In a large bowl, combine three tablespoons of olive oil, three minced garlic cloves, two teaspoons of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk these ingredients until well blended, then add 500 grams (about one pound) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though longer marination (up to 2 hours) develops even better flavor.

Create The Feta Tzatziki

While the chicken marinates, prepare the signature sauce. Grate one medium cucumber and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This prevents watery tzatziki that would soak through the pita. In a medium bowl, combine one cup of Greek yogurt, 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) of crumbled feta cheese, the drained cucumber, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Stir until well combined, then refrigerate to allow flavors to meld.

Grill To Perfection

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the hot grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The high heat creates beautiful grill marks while sealing in juices. Once cooked, transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Warm The Pita

While the chicken rests, warm your pita bread. Place each piece directly on the grill for about 30 seconds per side, just until heated through and slightly marked. Alternatively, wrap the stack in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes. Warm pita is more pliable and has enhanced flavor compared to room temperature bread.

Assemble With Care

Lay a warm pita flat and arrange sliced chicken down the center, being careful not to overfill. Spoon a generous amount of feta tzatziki over the chicken. Add optional toppings like sliced tomatoes, red onion, or lettuce if desired. The simple combination of grilled chicken and tzatziki is delicious on its own, but fresh vegetables add color and texture.

Wrap And Serve

Fold the bottom edge of the pita up slightly, then fold one side over and roll to form a cone or wrap shape that contains all the filling. This technique helps prevent spillage while eating. Secure with parchment paper or foil for easier handling if serving at a gathering. Serve immediately while the contrast between warm chicken and cool tzatziki is at its peak.

Offer Extra Sauce

Always serve additional tzatziki on the side for dipping or adding more as you eat. The creamy sauce is the highlight of the dish, and most people appreciate having extra to enjoy with each bite.

Save

I initially tried making these gyros with standard tzatziki, but felt something was missing. The breakthrough came when I remembered a small restaurant in Chicago that served a feta-enhanced version. Adding crumbled feta to the tzatziki created the perfect creamy, tangy counterpoint to the grilled chicken. What makes this recipe special is how it balances authentic flavors with practical preparation. The marinade contains just enough ingredients to deliver Mediterranean flavor without requiring a pantry overhaul, while the feta tzatziki elevates the entire dish without adding significant complexity. My family now requests these gyros regularly, and I've found they're perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

Perfect Pairings

Transform these handheld delights into a complete Mediterranean feast with thoughtfully chosen side dishes. Serve alongside crisp Greek salad with chunks of cucumber, juicy tomatoes, kalamata olives, and additional feta, dressed simply with red wine vinegar and olive oil for a refreshing contrast to the rich gyros. For a heartier meal, offer a side of lemon-herb roasted potatoes that provide satisfying starch with complementary flavors. Create a simple yet impressive appetizer spread with store-bought hummus, warm pita triangles, and marinated olives to enjoy while the chicken cooks. For a lighter touch, provide a platter of sliced fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes for dipping in extra tzatziki sauce, adding crunch and nutrition to the meal.

Creative Variations

Adapt this versatile recipe to create new flavor experiences while maintaining its Mediterranean character. Spicy version adds a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade and a pinch of cayenne to the tzatziki for guests who enjoy heat. Lemony herb adaptation incorporates fresh dill and mint into the tzatziki while adding lemon zest to the chicken marinade for brighter, more complex flavor. Vegetarian option replaces chicken with thick slices of marinated and grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms, maintaining satisfying protein while accommodating plant-based diets. Meal prep convenience involves making a double batch of marinated chicken and tzatziki, storing components separately in the refrigerator for quick assembly throughout the week—the tzatziki actually improves after a day as flavors meld.

Entertainment Ready

Maximize your hosting ease with strategic preparation that allows you to enjoy your own party. Prepare chicken and tzatziki up to two days ahead, storing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator—the marinade flavors will continue to develop while the tzatziki's flavors meld beautifully. For casual gatherings, create a build-your-own gyro bar where guests assemble their perfect combination from platters of sliced chicken, warmed pita, tzatziki, and various toppings like sliced tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and kalamata olives. When hosting larger groups, pre-assemble gyros halfway, wrapping them in parchment paper for easy serving, leaving the final fold for guests to complete just before eating. For outdoor entertaining, grill chicken outside for smoky flavor, then transfer to a covered dish to keep warm while guests serve themselves.

Save

These Mediterranean chicken gyros have become my signature dish when entertaining friends. What I love most is how they create an interactive dining experience—everyone customizing their own wrap with exactly the amount of tzatziki and toppings they prefer. The combination of warm chicken fresh off the grill wrapped in soft pita with cool, creamy tzatziki creates a perfect harmony of temperatures and textures that makes each bite exciting. There's something deeply satisfying about serving a meal that feels special and restaurant-worthy while actually being simple to prepare. Whether you're cooking for family on a busy weeknight or hosting weekend guests, these gyros deliver big Mediterranean flavor with surprisingly little effort.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I cook the chicken in a pan instead of on a grill?

Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F/75°C). You'll still get delicious results, though you might miss some of the smoky flavor from grilling.

→ How can I make this recipe truly gluten-free?

To make this recipe completely gluten-free, simply substitute regular pita bread with gluten-free pita bread or gluten-free wraps. Double-check that your Greek yogurt is certified gluten-free (most are, but it's good to verify). All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare any components of this meal ahead of time?

Yes! The tzatziki sauce actually improves if made 4-24 hours ahead and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to meld. You can also marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. For meal prep, you can cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat it gently before assembling the gyros.

→ What sides pair well with chicken gyros?

Traditional sides include Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. For something lighter, try a side of hummus with vegetable sticks or a Mediterranean couscous salad. Rice pilaf or Greek-style fries also make excellent accompaniments.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

You can make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, roasted chickpeas, or marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms. The marinade works great with these alternatives, and the creamy feta tzatziki pairs perfectly with them.

→ How do I prevent my gyros from falling apart when eating?

To keep your gyros intact, don't overfill them and make sure to warm the pita bread so it's pliable. Wrap the filled pita in parchment paper or aluminum foil, folding the bottom up first and then wrapping the sides. This creates a secure pocket that holds everything together while eating.