Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

 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

 

Leave a Comment