Greek Lemon Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade and Tzatziki
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