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