Introduction
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these Greek Chicken Gyros. Marinated in a zesty lemon-herb blend and wrapped in warm pita with creamy homemade tzatziki, these gyros are bursting with fresh, bold flavor. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or casual summer feasts.
Flavor-packed, fresh, and easier than you think—these gyros will become your go-to Greek-inspired meal.
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- 4–6 pita or flatbreads
- Sliced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce or arugula
- Sliced red onions
- Crumbled feta (optional)
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour (plus marinating)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, vinegar, and spices. Add chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki
In a bowl, mix yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, herbs, lemon juice, and salt. Chill until ready to use.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Grill or pan-cook marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Step 4: Assemble the Gyros
Warm the pita bread. Layer with tzatziki, sliced chicken, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Add feta if desired.
Wrap it up burrito-style or serve open-faced — delicious either way.
Tips for Success
- Use chicken thighs for juicier gyros.
- Squeeze excess liquid from cucumber to prevent watery tzatziki.
- Marinate overnight for extra flavorful chicken.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, serves 4)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
High in protein, Mediterranean-diet friendly, and lower in processed carbs.
Variations & Swaps
- Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled halloumi or chickpea patties.
- Dairy-free tzatziki: Use coconut yogurt and skip the feta.
- Low-carb option: Serve over a Greek salad or in lettuce wraps.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Chicken: Keeps in fridge 3–4 days.
- Tzatziki: Store up to 4 days in airtight container.
- Make-ahead: Marinate chicken and prep toppings in advance for fast assembly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with lemon potatoes or a cucumber tomato salad.
- Add hummus and olives for a Greek-style platter.
- Serve with chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Conclusion
These Greek Chicken Gyros are the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and fresh. With just a little prep, you can enjoy restaurant-worthy Mediterranean flavors in your own kitchen.
Easy, healthy, and seriously satisfying — don’t forget the extra tzatziki!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes, but homemade adds a fresher, more authentic flavor.
Can I bake the chicken?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.
What’s the best yogurt for tzatziki?
Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest, most authentic result.
Can I freeze cooked chicken?
Yes, cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Is this meal gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pitas or serve as a salad bowl to make it gluten-free.
