Greek Chicken Gyros Pita Wrap

Greek chicken gyros deliver everything you crave in a meal vibrant Mediterranean flavors tender seasoned chicken cool refreshing tzatziki crisp veggies all nestled into pillowy pita bread This recipe is my answer for nights when everyone wants something delicious quick and satisfying without a pile of dishes

The first time I tried making gyros at home I was surprised how close the taste was to the little taverna we visited on vacation Now it is our go to meal for everything from family dinners to casual get togethers

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Sliced thin for quick cooking and juiciness Look for firm pale pink pieces without excess moisture for best texture
• Olive oil: Brings richness and helps the marinade infuse Pick extra virgin for a peppery flavor
• Lemon juice: Brightens every layer Fresh squeezed is a must for the marinade and sauce
• Garlic: Boosts the overall savoriness I prefer fresh cloves over jarred for bold flavor
• Dried oregano: Adds an essential earthy note Greek oregano if you can find it
• Ground cumin: Brings subtle warmth Use freshly ground for depth
• Salt and pepper: Balance the seasoning Always taste as you go
• Greek yogurt: Is the foundation of authentic tzatziki Use whole milk for a creamier sauce
• Cucumber: Cool and crunchy A firm unblemished cucumber gives the best texture
• Fresh dill or mint: For herby freshness Snip just before using for optimal flavor
• Pita bread: Choose soft rounds with a bit of chew Bakery fresh or local brands often taste best
• Tomatoes: Opt for ripe and juicy You want vivid color and a gently yielding feel
• Red onions: Give a sweet mild bite Slice thin to avoid overpowering
• Feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy Prefer blocks over pre crumbled for freshness
• Parsley: Brightens with grassy notes Use flat leaf for the most flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Mix olive oil lemon juice garlic oregano cumin salt and pepper in a bowl Add sliced chicken Toss until well coated Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least half an hour For a stronger taste let it marinate overnight This time is crucial for juicy and flavorful chicken

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

Combine Greek yogurt grated and drained cucumber garlic lemon juice olive oil and chopped dill in a bowl Mix until smooth and creamy Season with salt and pepper Cover and chill in the refrigerator to let flavors meld together This makes all the difference in a refreshing sauce

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium high flame Add the marinated chicken cook for about five minutes per side until golden and cooked through Avoid crowding the pan so every piece browns nicely Let chicken rest for a few minutes to reabsorb juices before slicing

Warm the Pita:

Place pita rounds in a dry skillet on low or wrap in foil and warm in the oven They should feel flexible yet toasty This prevents cracking and makes wrapping easier

Assemble the Gyros:

Layer chicken strips down the center of each pita Top with chopped tomatoes sliced onions cucumber feta and parsley Pile on generous toppings for flavor and texture in every bite

Add Tzatziki Sauce:

Drizzle tzatziki generously over the fillings This ties everything together and keeps each bite moist and flavorful

Wrap and Serve:

Fold the pita up and around the fillings to create a tight wrap Serve right away while everything is warm and fresh for the most delicious results

Save

My favorite part of this recipe is the homemade tzatziki sauce The dill and fresh cucumber make it truly addicting Once my son started helping me grate cucumber it became our special kitchen moment every time we make this

Storage Tips

Leftover cooked chicken stores well in the fridge for up to three days Keep tzatziki in a separate airtight container up to four days Pita bread is best fresh but can be wrapped and reheated gently for later servings

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap fresh mint for dill in the tzatziki for a distinctly bright flavor For a dairy free meal try a coconut or almond based yogurt for the sauce Use whole wheat or gluten free pita if you prefer Substitute cherry tomatoes or baby cucumbers if that’s what is on hand

Serving Suggestions

Serve these gyros with a side of crispy oven potatoes or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal A handful of olives or a squeeze of extra lemon really wakes up the flavors These are also fantastic picnic fare since they pack and travel well

Cultural Context

Gyros are a beloved Greek street food This homemade version brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table using familiar supermarket ingredients Even if you have never been to Greece you can experience their warm flavors right from your own kitchen

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?

At least 30 minutes, but marinating the chicken overnight helps deepen the flavors and tenderize the meat.

→ Can different herbs be used in the tzatziki?

Yes, fresh mint can replace dill for a different herbal note, or use a mix for added complexity.

→ What’s the best way to warm pita bread?

Warm the pita in a dry skillet or in foil in the oven for a few minutes until soft and pliable.

→ How do you keep the gyros from getting soggy?

Add the tzatziki just before serving and avoid overfilling with juicy vegetables to help prevent sogginess.

→ What sides pair well with these gyros?

Greek salad or roasted potatoes make excellent accompaniments to round out the Mediterranean meal.