Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki

A fresh and flavorful take on classic Greek chicken gyros! This recipe features juicy, marinated grilled chicken paired with crisp vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce made with a unique twist—watermelon rind. The combination of warm pita, tender chicken, and refreshing tzatziki creates a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and Flavorful Chicken – Marinated in olive oil, lemon, and Greek spices for an authentic taste.
• Unique Tzatziki Sauce – Made with grated watermelon rind for a refreshing touch.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a great weeknight meal.
• Customizable – Adjust the toppings and seasonings to your preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and assemble when ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Gyros:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads (lightly warmed)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (diced)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup romaine lettuce (chopped)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Watermelon Rind Tzatziki:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup finely grated watermelon rind (drained of excess liquid)
• 1 small cucumber (grated and squeezed dry)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced chicken, toss to coat, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Cook the Chicken:

3. Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

Make the Watermelon Rind Tzatziki:

5. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated watermelon rind, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Assemble the Gyros:

7. Place lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions on warm pita bread.
8. Add grilled chicken and top generously with tzatziki sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 gyros
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Gyros: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Lemon-Herb Twist: Swap oregano for fresh thyme or basil for a different flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken and coconut yogurt for tzatziki.
• Cheesy Addition: Sprinkle crumbled feta over the gyros before serving.
• Grain-Free Option: Serve the chicken and toppings over a salad instead of pita.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and tzatziki in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30 seconds before serving.
• Freezing: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Meal Prep Tip: Chop vegetables and make tzatziki in advance for quicker assembly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I prevent my pita from getting soggy?

Layer the lettuce first to create a barrier between the bread and tzatziki.

Can I grill the chicken on an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

What can I use instead of watermelon rind in tzatziki?

You can skip it or replace it with more cucumber for a traditional tzatziki sauce.

How do I make my gyros more authentic?

Use homemade pita bread and add crumbled feta for an authentic Greek touch.

Can I make the tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s great to prepare in advance.

What sides pair well with chicken gyros?

Serve with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or a side of hummus and pita chips.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki and skip any cheese toppings.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Simply adjust the seasoning to be milder if needed.

Can I serve the gyros in something other than pita?

Try wrapping them in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or serving them over rice.

Conclusion

These Greek chicken gyros with tzatziki offer a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. The juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy watermelon rind tzatziki create a delicious balance of textures and flavors. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these homemade gyros are sure to be a hit.