There’s something deeply comforting about a warm pita stuffed with juicy, marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy tzatziki sauce. My love for Chicken Gyros began years ago in my grandmother’s kitchen, the same place where her fragrant garlic and lemon marinades turned ordinary ingredients into magic. Today, I make this Mediterranean Chicken Gyros recipe to bring that magic back to life. It’s my way of keeping her tradition alive while sharing the flavors that once filled her Sicilian kitchen. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard gathering, these Chicken Gyros always steal the spotlight.
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Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Gyros Recipe
This Chicken Gyros recipe is everything you want in a meal; fresh, flavorful, and fast. The marinated chicken bursts with Greek-inspired flavors of lemon, oregano, and garlic, while the homemade tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing balance. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it in pita wraps, on salads, or even as a rice bowl. If you’re a fan of wholesome, Mediterranean-style dishes like Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas, this recipe will become your new favorite. It’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests.
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Chicken Gyros Recipe: Authentic Mediterranean Flavor at Home
These homemade Chicken Gyros bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Juicy marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita, topped with creamy tzatziki and crisp veggies,, it’s a simple yet irresistible meal.
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
½ cup Greek yogurt
½ cup grated cucumber
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
4 pita breads
Toppings: tomatoes, onions, lettuce
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and marinate at least 30 minutes or overnight for richer flavor.
3. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and done, about 5–6 minutes per side.
4. Prepare tzatziki by combining yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and salt.
5. Warm pita bread and spread tzatziki.
6. Add sliced chicken, top with tomatoes, onions, and lettuce.
7. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
Add feta cheese or roasted red peppers for extra Greek flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Gyros at home:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken thighs | 1½ pounds |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice (fresh) | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 3 |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup (for tzatziki) |
| Cucumber (grated) | ½ cup |
| Dill (fresh, chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Warm pita bread | 4 rounds |
| Toppings: tomatoes, onions, lettuce | As desired |
How to Make It
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for richer taste. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Once done, let it rest before slicing thinly.
While the chicken rests, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Chill it while you assemble the gyros. Warm your pita, spread a generous spoon of tzatziki, add sliced chicken, and top with tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. If you’ve tried my Melt In Your Mouth Chicken, you’ll love how tender and flavorful this version turns out.
Tips and Variations
For extra depth, try marinating the chicken overnight; the flavors really soak in. If you prefer a lighter version, use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs. Want to skip the bread? Turn these Mediterranean Chicken Gyros into a salad bowl with rice or quinoa, similar to the style in my Street Corn Chicken Rice. You can also add crumbled feta or roasted red peppers for a Greek-inspired twist. If you’re craving a creamy element, a drizzle of hummus pairs beautifully with the garlicky chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a gyro made of?
Traditional gyros are made with meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, typically lamb or chicken, served in pita with veggies and sauce. This homemade version captures the same flavor with grilled chicken for a simpler approach.
2. What’s the best sauce for chicken gyros?
Tzatziki is the classic choice, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It’s tangy, cooling, and complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
3. Can I make chicken gyros ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and even cook it ahead, storing it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently before serving.
4. What goes well with chicken gyros?
Serve them with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or even Rosemary Apple Cider Chicken on the side for a hearty Mediterranean feast.
Finale Thoughts
These Chicken Gyros are proof that restaurant-quality flavor can come from your own kitchen. The balance of lemony marinade, cool tzatziki, and fluffy pita makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this recipe brings the warmth and comfort of home.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
