Greek Lemon Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade and Tzatziki
These Greek Lemon Chicken Gyros feature juicy marinated chicken infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs — wrapped in soft pita bread and topped with crisp veggies and a cool homemade tzatziki sauce.
It’s a fresh, protein-packed dish that’s both light and satisfying — perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes – 4 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp Greek yogurt
For the Tzatziki Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove water
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
Salt, to taste
For the Gyros
4 Greek-style pita breads
1 cup shredded lettuce or baby spinach
1 tomato, diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice & zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt.
Add chicken, toss to coat evenly, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki
Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt in a bowl.
Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 4: Warm the Pita
Lightly brush pitas with olive oil and warm them in a dry skillet or directly on the grill for 30–60 seconds per side.
Step 5: Assemble the Gyros
Lay a warm pita on a plate.
Add lettuce or spinach, sliced chicken, tomatoes, and red onion.
Drizzle generously with tzatziki and sprinkle feta on top.
Garnish with parsley or dill.
Wrap or fold and enjoy!
Notes & Tips
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
Add veggies: Roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives work beautifully.
For meal prep: Store components separately and assemble fresh before serving.
For extra lemon flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice to the tzatziki before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs stay juicier and add a richer flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to serve leftover chicken?
Over rice, in a salad, or in a wrap with hummus and greens.
Q: Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or until fully cooked.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~510 kcal
Protein: 41g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g