Greek Chicken Gyros

Juicy, flavorful chicken marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano, grilled to perfection, and wrapped in warm pita with fresh veggies and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. This Mediterranean classic is a fresh and delicious meal that’s easy to make at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Mediterranean flavors – This recipe captures the taste of traditional Greek gyros with simple, fresh ingredients.
• Easy to make – With a little prep, you can have restaurant-quality gyros at home.
• Healthy and balanced – Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and a light yogurt-based sauce.
• Customizable – Adjust toppings and seasonings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep – Marinate the chicken in advance for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 4 pita breads
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh lettuce

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well in the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

1. In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
3. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.

Assemble the Gyros:

1. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 1 minute.
2. Place slices of the cooked chicken onto each pita.
3. Top with tomato slices, red onion, and fresh lettuce.

Top with Tzatziki Sauce:

1. Spoon a generous amount of chilled tzatziki sauce over the fillings.

Serve:

1. Fold the pitas over the fillings or roll them up.
2. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Gyros: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for lamb, beef, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Extra Toppings: Try feta cheese, kalamata olives, or roasted red peppers for more Mediterranean flair.
• Whole Wheat Pita: Use whole wheat pita for a healthier twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep tzatziki sauce separately to maintain freshness.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Reheat pita on a dry pan for a few seconds.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs tend to stay juicier. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

What can I use instead of pita bread?

You can use naan, flatbread, or even a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor.

How do I keep the pita from breaking?

Warm the pita slightly before filling to make it more flexible.

Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge.

What’s the best way to drain cucumbers for tzatziki?

Grate the cucumber, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh dill provides the best flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill if fresh isn’t available.

What sides go well with Greek chicken gyros?

Serve with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or hummus and pita chips.

Are Greek gyros healthy?

Yes! They are packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a light yogurt-based sauce.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. With juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki, these gyros are a perfect meal for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy a homemade Greek feast!