If you’re craving something light, zesty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, these Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki are a must-try. Juicy, marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with cool, creamy tzatziki — it’s a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying. I once swapped the pita for lettuce wraps for a lighter option, and it was just as delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving Greek comfort food, this gyro recipe brings sunshine to your plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These gyros are the perfect balance of bright, tangy, and savory. The lemon-herb marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, while the tzatziki adds a cool, creamy contrast. You’ll love how easy it is to make — simple ingredients, bold results, and ready in under an hour. It’s a complete meal wrapped in pita bread, combining juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and that irresistible garlicky yogurt sauce. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!
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Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki: Fresh, Flavorful & Authentic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 gyros
- Diet: Halal
Description
Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki are a delicious and authentic Mediterranean dish featuring tender marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita with creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies. Bursting with bright lemon, garlic, and herb flavors — it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- 4 pita or flatbreads
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm pita bread slightly in a dry skillet or microwave. Spread tzatziki sauce over the center of each pita, then layer sliced chicken, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.
- Fold the pita around the filling and wrap in parchment or foil for easy eating. Serve immediately with extra tzatziki on the side.
Notes
- For more flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal or an outdoor grill.
- Use whole wheat or low-carb pita for a healthier version.
- Leftover chicken and tzatziki make a great salad topping or bowl meal.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the juiciest results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The star of the dish; thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work beautifully too.
Olive Oil – Keeps the chicken moist and carries the flavors of the marinade.
Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken.
Garlic – Provides depth and that signature Greek aroma.
Dried Oregano – The key Mediterranean herb for authentic flavor.
Dried Thyme – Adds warmth and complements the lemon and garlic.
Paprika – Gives color and a hint of smokiness.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Greek Yogurt – Used in both the marinade and the tzatziki for creaminess and tang.
Cucumber – The base of tzatziki, adding freshness and crunch.
Fresh Dill – Brings a fragrant, herby note to the sauce.
Pita Bread or Flatbread – Warm and soft, perfect for wrapping.
Tomatoes, Onions, and Lettuce – Classic toppings for freshness and crunch.
Feta Cheese (optional) – Adds a tangy, salty finish.
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. In a bowl, combine the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
Warm the pita bread on the grill or in a dry pan for a few seconds on each side. Assemble the gyros by layering chicken slices, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Sprinkle with feta cheese if desired and wrap tightly.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra sauce on the side.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 45 minutes total — 10 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to marinate, and 15 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1 minute. Keep tzatziki refrigerated in a separate container for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing the sauce, as yogurt can separate.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Gyros: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Garlic Lovers’ Version: Double the garlic in both the marinade and tzatziki for bold flavor.
Herb-Heavy Gyros: Add fresh parsley or mint for extra freshness.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and toppings in lettuce wraps or over a salad.
Creamy Lemon Sauce: Mix a bit of mayonnaise with tzatziki for a richer flavor.
Roasted Veggie Gyros: Add roasted bell peppers or eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
Feta and Olive Gyros: Add crumbled feta and sliced Kalamata olives for a saltier bite.
Honey-Lemon Gyros: Add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for subtle sweetness.
Yogurt-Free Tzatziki: Use sour cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Grilled Skewer Style: Make gyro skewers for barbecues or parties — they’re fun and easy to eat!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier and are perfect for grilling.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours gives the best flavor.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until fully cooked.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Of course! But homemade is fresher and more flavorful.
What’s the best way to warm pita bread?
Lightly grill or heat it in a dry skillet until soft and warm.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared a day ahead.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely — substitute grilled halloumi or falafel for the chicken.
What can I serve with gyros?
Greek salad, lemon rice, or roasted potatoes make great sides.
How do I keep gyros from falling apart?
Wrap them tightly in parchment paper or foil for easy handling.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki bring authentic Mediterranean flavor straight to your kitchen. With tender, juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings wrapped in warm pita, every bite is vibrant and satisfying. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and ideal for both quick dinners and festive gatherings. Light, zesty, and packed with flavor — this is one Greek dish you’ll come back to again and again.
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