Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
These gyros feature tender spiced chicken, refreshing vegetables, and tangy tzatziki wrapped in soft, fluffy pita bread. Bursting with classic Greek flavors, they’re easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 gyros
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: pinch of cinnamon or allspice for depth
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste
For Assembly:
4 pita breads (or flatbreads), warmed
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 tomato, sliced
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
Lettuce, arugula, or spinach
Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
Add chicken and coat well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 12 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Make the Tzatziki
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, and salt.
Chill until ready to use
4.Assemble the Gyros
Lay warm pita flat, spread tzatziki, and layer with sliced chicken, tomato, cucumber, onion, lettuce, and feta.
Fold and wrap in parchment or foil if needed.
Notes & Tips
Marination Tip: Use thighs for juicier gyros; breasts for a leaner version.
Make-ahead: Cook chicken and store for 3 days refrigerated.
Tzatziki: Can be made 1 day in advance. Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge.
Warm pita: Briefly warm in a skillet or oven for soft pliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake or air fry the chicken?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What can I use instead of tzatziki?
A: Hummus or a garlic yogurt sauce are great alternatives.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: The chicken can be frozen after cooking. Tzatziki and fresh veggies are best made fresh.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: ~550mg