Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly fast to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want a nutritious, filling meal without spending much time in the kitchen. The crispy chickpeas, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki come together in the most satisfying way. Plus, it’s vegetarian and customizable based on your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and dried
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons 2% or full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 small cucumber
- 1 small Roma tomato, sliced
- 1 tablespoon diced red onion
- 2 whole wheat pitas
Directions
- In a large skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and chickpeas, stirring to coat evenly.
- Immediately add garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Cook for 9-10 minutes on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas turn golden brown.
- While the chickpeas cook, prepare the toppings. Slice the cucumber and tomato, and dice the red onion.
- For the tzatziki sauce, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and finely grated cucumber.
- Warm the pitas in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds.
- Assemble the gyros: spoon tzatziki onto the pitas, add the crispy chickpeas, and top with fresh veggies.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 gyros
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Use hummus instead of tzatziki for a vegan option.
- Swap the chickpeas for falafel for a different flavor and texture.
- Add additional veggies like shredded lettuce, or swap out the Roma tomato for cherry tomatoes.
Storage/Reheating
- Store any leftover chickpeas and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat chickpeas in a pan or the microwave for a few seconds, and refresh the pitas by warming them slightly.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or use hummus for a vegan version.
How do I make the chickpeas extra crispy?
Make sure to dry the chickpeas thoroughly before cooking to avoid moisture, which can prevent them from crisping up.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use regular pita bread, mini naan, or even gluten-free pitas if preferred.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chickpeas or tzatziki sauce for a little heat.
Is this recipe vegan?
You can make it vegan by using a dairy-free yogurt alternative or replacing tzatziki with hummus.
How do I store leftover tzatziki sauce?
Store leftover tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?
While fresh chickpeas can be used, canned chickpeas are recommended for this recipe as they are quicker and easier to prepare.
What else can I serve with these gyros?
A side salad, roasted vegetables, or pita chips with hummus would complement the gyros nicely.
Can I prepare the chickpeas ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chickpeas in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tzatziki sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
These 15-Minute Chickpea Gyros are an excellent choice for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. Packed with crispy chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, they offer the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a light dinner or lunch, this easy recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen in no time!
15-Minute Chickpea Gyros
These 15-Minute Chickpea Gyros are a quick, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal. With crispy chickpeas, homemade tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies wrapped in warm pita, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish in just 15 minutes. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is vegetarian and customizable to suit your tastes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 gyros
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Vegetarian, Mediterranean
- Method: Stovetop, Assembling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and dried
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons 2% or full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ small cucumber
- 1 small Roma tomato, sliced
- 1 tablespoon diced red onion
- 2 whole wheat pitas
Instructions
- Cook the Chickpeas: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chickpeas and stir to coat evenly. Sprinkle garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and paprika. Cook for 9-10 minutes on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas are golden brown.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the chickpeas cook, slice the cucumber and tomato, and dice the red onion.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and finely grated cucumber.
- Warm the Pitas: Heat pitas in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds.
- Assemble the Gyros: Spread a spoonful of tzatziki sauce onto each pita, add crispy chickpeas, and top with fresh veggies.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- For a vegan version, swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt or use hummus instead of tzatziki.
- Customize with other veggies like shredded lettuce or swap Roma tomato for cherry tomatoes.
- Add heat with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicier option.
