Grilled Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce and Veggies
Warm pita bread filled with juicy, marinated grilled chicken, crisp fresh veggies, and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. These handheld gyros are a wholesome and flavor-packed Mediterranean meal you can enjoy any day of the week.
⏱ Time
Prep: 20 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook: 12–15 minutes
Total: ~35 minutes (1 hr with marinating)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (juicier) or breasts
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated & squeezed dry
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Gyro Wraps:
4 warm pita or flatbreads
1 cup lettuce or shredded cabbage
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, sliced
Optional: feta cheese crumbles
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken and marinate at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in fridge).
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden with char marks and fully cooked (165°F / 74°C).
Rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Make Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
Chill until serving.
4. Assemble Gyros:
Warm pita bread.
Layer with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and onions.
Add sliced chicken.
Drizzle generously with tzatziki.
Sprinkle feta if desired.
Fold or roll and serve immediately.
Notes & Tips
Use chicken thighs for juicier gyros; breasts are leaner but slightly drier.
For extra flavor, brush pitas with olive oil and warm them on the grill.
Add a few crispy potato fries inside for a true Greek-style gyro experience.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Yes—cook chicken and prep veggies ahead. Assemble just before serving.
Q: What’s the best bread for gyros?
Greek pita (soft, pocketless) works best. Naan or flatbread is a great substitute.
Q: Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes—bake chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, then slice.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~480
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 44g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g