Greek Chicken Gyros with Charred Onion Feta Sauce

Table of Contents

Greek Chicken Gyros with Charred Onion Feta Sauce bring together juicy marinated chicken, warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, and a bold creamy sauce with Mediterranean herbs. The chicken is marinated in yogurt, lemon, and spices for tenderness and flavor, while the charred onion feta sauce adds a smoky tangy richness that elevates every bite. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep since it can be cooked on a grill pan, skillet, or oven. Fresh toppings like romaine, cucumber, and tomatoes balance the savory flavors and add refreshing crunch. The combination of creamy feta, aromatic herbs, and lightly charred onions creates a signature taste inspired by classic Greek street food. With simple preparation and flexible ingredients, these gyros are both satisfying and easy to customize based on your preferences.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30–60 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 wraps

Ingredients

Greek Feta Sauce

Extra virgin olive oil: 1/4 cup

Plain Greek yogurt: 3 tbsp

Feta cheese: 2 oz

Red wine vinegar: 2 tbsp

Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp

Dried parsley: 1/2 tsp (or 1 tsp fresh)

Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp

Dried oregano: 1/4 tsp

Dried basil: 1/4 tsp

Salt: 1/8 tsp

Chicken and Marinade

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

For Serving/Assembly

4 pita breads

1 cup chopped romaine lettuce

1 cup sliced tomatoes

1/2 cup sliced cucumber

1/2 small onion, diced or sliced

Optional: olives, extra feta, fresh parsley

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

Add chicken pieces, coat thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Heat a skillet with a little oil and cook sliced onions on high heat until charred and softened. Set aside.

In a blender or bowl, combine feta sauce ingredients with the charred onions and blend until creamy. Add water if needed for consistency.

Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium high heat.

Cook marinated chicken 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly golden.

Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Warm pita bread in a dry pan or oven until soft and flexible.

Spread charred onion feta sauce on each pita, then add lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.

Finish with extra feta or herbs, fold into wraps, and serve immediately.

Tips

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and richer flavor.

Marinate longer for deeper seasoning and tenderness.

Cook onions on high heat to develop a smoky char.

Rest cooked chicken before slicing to retain juices.

Warm pita briefly to prevent cracking while folding.

Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt carefully since feta is salty.

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over assembled gyros for brightness.

Slice vegetables thinly for easier wrapping and balanced bites.

Use a grill pan for authentic char marks.

Prepare sauce a few hours ahead to allow flavors to blend.

Variations

Substitute chicken with grilled lamb or beef strips.

Use whole wheat or gluten free pita bread.

Add roasted red peppers for sweetness.

Replace feta with goat cheese for a tangier sauce.

Add spinach or arugula for a peppery green element.

Make a spicy version by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.

Turn into a gyro bowl with rice or quinoa instead of pita.

Use tzatziki instead of feta sauce for a classic twist.

Add grilled zucchini or eggplant slices.

Prepare mini sliders using small flatbreads for parties.

Q&A

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep chicken, sauce, and vegetables separately in the fridge.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, up to two days in advance.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes if desired.

What other toppings work well?

Pickled onions, olives, or cucumbers.

Can I use store bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, for a faster version.

How do I keep wraps from getting soggy?

Add sauce sparingly and assemble just before serving.

Can I grill outdoors?

Absolutely, it adds extra smoky flavor.

Is Greek yogurt necessary?

It helps tenderize and add tang but plain yogurt works too.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze sliced chicken for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

(Approx. per wrap)

Calories: 420–460
Protein: 32g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: Moderate due to feta and seasoning

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros with Charred Onion Feta Sauce combine juicy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a bold creamy sauce into a satisfying Mediterranean style wrap. The balance of smoky charred onions, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs creates layers of flavor while still being simple enough for everyday cooking. With flexible cooking methods and easy variations, this recipe works for casual family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Serve warm with fresh toppings and enjoy a comforting dish inspired by classic Greek street food.