Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Gyros are a timeless Mediterranean classic warm pita wraps filled with tender, marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy, garlicky tzatziki. This dish is not only flavorful and satisfying but also surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal-prepping for the week, these gyros are sure to be a hit.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making authentic Greek chicken gyros from crafting the perfect lemon-herb marinade to assembling your gyros like a pro. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions home cooks have about this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb chicken breast (sliced into thin strips)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gyro Assembly:

• 4 pita breads (preferably warm and soft)
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup chopped lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (firm and ripe)
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion (thinly sliced for bite)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended. Add the sliced chicken breast and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—though 2 to 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor. You can also refrigerate it overnight for even juicier results.

Tip: If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still yield delicious results thanks to the acidity of the lemon juice.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely browned. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Optional: For extra char and authentic flavor, you can grill the chicken on an outdoor barbecue.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

While the chicken cooks, prep your fresh toppings:

• Chop the lettuce into bite-sized strips.
• Dice the tomatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid a soggy wrap.
• Thinly slice the red onion.

If you’re making tzatziki sauce from scratch, now’s the time to combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. If you’re using store-bought, make sure it’s chilled and ready.

Step 4: Warm the Pitas

Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This makes them more pliable and easier to fold without cracking.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

Now comes the fun part—building your Greek Chicken Gyros:

1. Lay a warm pita on a plate or piece of parchment paper.
2. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki down the center.
3. Add a handful of chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes.
4. Top with a few strips of cooked chicken.
5. Finish with thin red onion slices.

Fold the pita over the filling like a taco or wrap it in parchment for a more authentic street-food look.

Pro tip: Don’t overfill the pita or it will be hard to wrap and eat. Keep it balanced!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your gyros with:

• A side of crispy oven fries or lemon rice
• A Greek salad with olives and feta
• Extra tzatziki for dipping

They also pair wonderfully with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a traditional Greek lemonade.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Greek Chicken Gyros

This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, full of bold Mediterranean flavors, and easy enough for weeknight dinners. The lemon-herb marinade brings brightness, the veggies add crunch, and the creamy tzatziki ties everything together in a cool, tangy finish.

Once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to takeout gyros again!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate and cook the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita bread or serve the gyro filling in a lettuce wrap or rice bowl.

Is tzatziki necessary?

Tzatziki is traditional, but you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and garlic if needed.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

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