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chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce

Emma
It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet flavorful enough to impress at a weekend gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Grater or Box Grater
  • Garlic Press or Knife
  • Tongs or Spatula
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan
  • Kitchen Towel or Cheesecloth

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated and water squeezed out
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

  • 4 fresh pita breads
  • Optional: sliced tomatoes, red onion, shredded lettuce

Instructions
 

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce

  • First, I grate a medium cucumber and use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out all the excess moisture. This step is key for a thick and rich sauce.
    In a separate bowl, I combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, fresh chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I mix everything together until smooth and well-blended, then cover and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld together while I prepare the rest of the meal.
  • In a mixing bowl, I combine the olive oil, freshly minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
    Then, I add the chicken breasts to the bowl, turning them to coat each piece thoroughly with the marinade. For best results, I recommend covering the bowl with plastic wrap and letting it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, though overnight is ideal for deeper flavor.
  • I preheat my grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Using tongs, I place the chicken breasts onto the grill or skillet, letting them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes per side. This ensures a beautiful golden-brown sear while locking in the juices.
    To check doneness, I use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, I remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
  • While the chicken rests, I warm the pita breads by briefly placing them on the grill or skillet for about a minute each side. Warm pita is soft and pliable, perfect for folding around the chicken and sauce without cracking.
Keyword chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce