If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors but comes together with minimal fuss, this Sheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, marinated chicken bakes perfectly all on one pan while a creamy, tangy feta tzatziki sauce ties it all together, making each bite feel like a festive celebration. It’s the kind of meal that feels both fresh and comforting, perfect for weeknights or impressing friends without messing up the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to create this stunning dish. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the juicy chicken and fragrant herbs to the creamy feta that transforms the tzatziki into something truly memorable.
- Full-fat plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the base for marinating and thickening the tzatziki, giving creamy tanginess.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Brings richness and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cubed for quick, even cooking packed with flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that balances the spices perfectly.
- Garlic cloves: Provide a punch of savory depth both in marinade and sauce.
- Shallots: Their mild sweetness complements the garlic beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth for that authentic gyro taste.
- Fresh oregano: Brings an herbal, aromatic note that’s classic to Greek dishes.
- Red pepper flakes: Deliver just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors to life.
- Fresh pitas or naan: Soft and warm, perfect as the canvas for your gyros.
- Pickled red onion, lettuce, dill, and parsley: Fresh garnishes add crunch, tang, and herbaceous brightness.
- Feta cheese: The star ingredient in the tzatziki, lending a creamy, salty richness.
- Persian cucumbers: Grated for cooling crunch in the tzatziki sauce.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, shallots, smoked paprika, fresh oregano, red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the cubed chicken into this mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with layers of bold flavor but also keeps it tender and juicy. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, then spread the marinated chicken cubes evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then give the chicken a quick toss and return it to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes until fully cooked through. For that irresistible slightly charred edge reminiscent of street-style gyros, switch your oven to broil and cook the chicken for another 1 to 2 minutes—but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 3: Prepare the Feta Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken roasts, blend the feta cheese, 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice until creamy and smooth. Next, fold in the remaining 1/3 cup of yogurt, the shredded Persian cucumbers, and a pinch of kosher salt with red pepper flakes to balance the flavors. This feta tzatziki sauce is the star condiment that elevates the entire dish, providing creamy coolness with a salty, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken.
Step 4: Assemble Your Gyros
Warm your pitas or naan bread, then spread a generous layer of the feta tzatziki sauce onto each. Load up with the baked chicken, crisp lettuce, pickled red onions, fresh dill, and parsley. Top your gyro with an extra drizzle of tzatziki and if you love a bit of heat, add a touch of harissa for an exciting twist. Each bite is a beautiful harmony of creamy, spicy, tangy, and fresh.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill and parsley lift the flavors and add lively green notes, while pickled red onions bring a sharp, zesty contrast. Lettuce keeps it crunchy and light, making the gyros feel fresh and balanced with each bite of juicy chicken and creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair these gyros with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon and olive oil, or maybe some roasted potatoes tossed in herbs and garlic. A crisp Greek salad or even lightly charred vegetables complement the flavors and keep the meal vibrant and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and tzatziki over a grain bowl with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, pile everything onto crispy lettuce wraps for a low-carb take that still delivers all the classic gyro flavors. For casual gatherings, make a build-your-own gyro bar to let everyone add their favorite toppings and sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover chicken and tzatziki sauce should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The marinated chicken keeps its flavor and texture well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the following day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. However, for best results, prepare the tzatziki fresh when ready to serve, as freezing can change its texture and freshness.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying it out, then add fresh tzatziki sauce after warming for the best experience. Avoid microwaving the tzatziki to keep its bright, creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving when baking, so they work beautifully with this marinade and cooking method.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
While 15 minutes is enough for busy days, marinating overnight allows the flavors to particularly permeate the chicken for a deeper, more aromatic experience.
Is there a substitute for Persian cucumbers in the tzatziki?
If you can’t find Persian cucumbers, English cucumbers or regular cucumbers work fine. Just be sure to shred and drain them well to avoid watery tzatziki.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the pitas for gluten-free flatbreads or serve the chicken and toppings over a fresh salad or grain bowl to keep it gluten-free.
What can I use instead of harissa to add heat?
If harissa’s not available, try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some cayenne pepper mixed into your tzatziki for a customizable kick.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like an instant crowd-pleaser. It brings together juicy, flavorful chicken and a luscious sauce with fresh, crunchy toppings—all without complicated steps or endless cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting friends, this recipe offers an easy, delicious way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean any day of the week. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a dinner favorite!
PrintSheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Recipe
This Sheet Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki recipe offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy classic Greek flavors at home. Marinated cubed chicken cooks perfectly on a sheet pan, then is paired with a creamy feta-infused tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and warmed pitas for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Feta Tzatziki Sauce
- 8 ounces feta cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1–2 Persian cucumbers, shredded
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
To Serve
- 6 fresh pitas or naan, warmed
- Pickled red onion
- Lettuce
- Fresh dill
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine 1/3 cup Greek yogurt, olive oil, cubed chicken, lemon juice, chopped garlic, chopped shallots, smoked paprika, chopped oregano, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes, or for enhanced flavor, refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then toss the chicken to ensure even cooking. Continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Broil for Char: Once cooked, switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken on high for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to allow the edges to char slightly, adding smoky flavor without burning.
- Prepare the Feta Tzatziki Sauce: In a blender, combine the feta cheese, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, grated garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl, then stir in the remaining 1/3 cup Greek yogurt, shredded cucumbers, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently to combine.
- Warm the Bread: Warm the pitas or naan bread in the oven or on a skillet until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Gyros: Spread a generous amount of feta tzatziki sauce over each warm pita. Layer with fresh lettuce, the roasted chicken pieces, pickled red onion, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. Drizzle additional tzatziki over the top and, if desired, add harissa for extra spice.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the prepared gyros while the chicken is warm and the flavors are fresh for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- If Persian cucumbers are unavailable, use English cucumbers or any mild cucumber variety.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle harissa paste on the assembled gyros.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs depending on preference; thighs yield a juicier result.
- Pickled red onions add a bright, tangy contrast but can be omitted if unavailable.