Mediterranean-Friendly Homemade Chicken Gyros
Juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served in warm pita or flatbread with fresh vegetables, creamy tzatziki, and a sprinkle of herbs. This homemade version is lower in fat, full of protein, and keeps all the classic gyro flavors without heavy oils or excess sodium. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal or meal prep.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time: 30–60 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1–1.5 hours
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Greek yogurt (optional, for tenderness)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki
½ cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped dill or mint
For Serving
2–3 whole wheat pita breads or flatbreads
1 cup chopped lettuce or arugula
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
¼ cup sliced cucumber
Optional: olives or feta crumbles
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken strips and mix to coat evenly.
Marinate for 30–60 minutes in the fridge.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Chill until ready to serve.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken strips for 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the Gyros
Warm pita or flatbread.
Layer lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Add cooked chicken strips on top.
Drizzle generously with tzatziki.
Sprinkle feta or olives if desired.
5. Serve
Roll or fold the pita and enjoy immediately.
Notes & Tips
Meal prep: Marinate chicken ahead and store cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble gyros fresh.
Low-carb option: Serve chicken and veggies over a salad instead of pita.
Flavor tip: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or sumac for authentic Mediterranean taste.
Optional veggies: Roasted bell peppers, shredded carrots, or pickled onions enhance flavor and nutrition.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes — they stay juicier and more flavorful.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Serve the chicken and veggies over lettuce or gluten-free flatbread.
Q: Can I grill the chicken outside?
A: Absolutely — grilled chicken adds great smoky flavor.
⚡ Nutrition information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sodium: 420 mg