Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings the taste of Greece straight to your kitchen. This recipe combines juicy, marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped up in soft pita bread for a perfect meal. The marinade gives the chicken an incredible depth of flavor, with a mix of garlic, lemon, and oregano. Paired with the cool, tangy tzatziki sauce, and topped with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumber, and feta, this gyro is a delicious balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing this for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can serve it as a wrap in pita bread, or for a lighter option, serve the chicken and toppings on a bed of greens for a gyro salad. The homemade tzatziki sauce is the star of the show, adding a creamy, tangy element that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. Easy to make yet full of bold flavors, this gyro recipe is an excellent choice for those who love Mediterranean cuisine or anyone looking to try something new!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Flavorful

The combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and the creamy tzatziki sauce delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

2. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make this dish at home without any complicated cooking techniques.

3. Customizable

You can modify the toppings and adjust the level of seasoning or spice according to your preferences, making it as mild or bold as you like.

4. Healthy and Balanced

Packed with lean protein from the chicken, fresh veggies, and the yogurt-based tzatziki sauce, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.

5. Great for Meal Prep

Greek Chicken Gyros are perfect for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken in advance, and the gyros are easy to assemble when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients

For The Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken breast, thinly sliced
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Ground cumin
• Salt and pepper

For The Tzatziki Sauce:

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber, grated and drained
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Fresh dill (or mint)
• Salt and pepper

For The Gyros:

• Pita bread rounds
• Chopped tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Chopped cucumber
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Chopped parsley

Variations

1. Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the gyro for extra flavor and texture.
2. Lamb Gyros: Substitute chicken with lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pita bread or serve the gyro filling in a lettuce wrap for a gluten-free version.
4. Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or drizzle some hot sauce over the assembled gyro.
5. Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh, and use a plant-based yogurt for the tzatziki sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken slices and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure it’s well-drained), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill (or mint), salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Remove from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before assembling the gyros.

Step 4: Warm the Pita Bread

While the chicken is resting, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or in the oven for a minute or two until soft and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

To assemble, place a warm pita bread on a plate. Add a few slices of cooked chicken, then top with chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, chopped cucumber, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Fold the pita around the fillings to form a wrap, and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the Chicken Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
• Grill the Chicken: If you have a grill, cooking the chicken on it will give it an extra smoky flavor.
• Make the Tzatziki Ahead of Time: The tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and making assembly even quicker.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add or remove toppings based on your preferences. You can even add Kalamata olives or sautéed mushrooms for more variety.
• Serve with Sides: Greek Chicken Gyros pair wonderfully with a side of Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or even some hummus and pita.

How to Serve

Greek Chicken Gyros are best served immediately after assembling while the chicken is hot, and the pita is soft and warm. They make a perfect main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair them with a refreshing Greek salad, a side of roasted veggies, or some crispy baked fries for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and tzatziki sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet or microwave, and the tzatziki should be kept chilled.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken (before cooking) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed. The tzatziki sauce, however, does not freeze well due to its yogurt content.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs would work perfectly in this recipe, adding a bit more flavor and juiciness.

2. Can I make the tzatziki sauce without dill?

Yes, if you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute it with fresh mint or even parsley.

3. Can I use a store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Yes, you can use a store-bought version, but homemade tzatziki adds a fresher, more authentic taste.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pita bread or serve the filling in a lettuce wrap instead.

5. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day before and cook it the next day.

6. Can I grill the chicken?

Yes, grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor that complements the gyros nicely.

7. How do I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade, or drizzle the assembled gyro with hot sauce for an extra kick.

8. Can I use another protein?

Yes, lamb or beef would also work well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

10. Can I serve this with other sides?

Greek Chicken Gyros are great with a variety of sides like Greek salad, hummus, roasted potatoes, or even a simple cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are an incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender, marinated chicken, refreshing vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce, these gyros bring the vibrant flavors of Greece to your plate. Whether you enjoy them as a quick weeknight dinner or serve them at a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a homemade Mediterranean meal right at home. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!

Print