Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious, fresh, and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Greece to your table. With marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tzatziki sauce all wrapped up in soft pita bread, this meal is both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual weekend gathering, Greek Chicken Gyros are full of bright, Mediterranean flavors that everyone will love. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and oregano, making it tender and packed with flavor. When paired with fresh tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and creamy tzatziki sauce, it creates a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the streets of Athens.

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also very customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer extra sauce or a more savory gyro with additional toppings, this dish offers flexibility and is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a hassle-free, tasty meal on busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros are a great option for anyone looking for a light, yet filling meal. The chicken is marinated to perfection, with a combination of fresh garlic, lemon, and oregano that infuses every bite with authentic Mediterranean flavor. The creamy tzatziki sauce complements the savory chicken, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and color to the dish. This recipe is also highly versatile—you can enjoy it as a sandwich or wrap, and add any toppings or sauces you prefer. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a healthier alternative to fast food, offering plenty of protein and fresh ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied without the guilt.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
4 pita bread
Tzatziki sauce
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onions
Chopped lettuce

Variations

Chicken alternatives: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian gyro.
Extra toppings: Add feta cheese, olives, or cucumber slices to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
Spicy version: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the tzatziki sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten-free: Serve the chicken with gluten-free pita bread or in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb, gluten-free option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and mix until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through and lightly browned.

Step 3: Warm the Pita Bread

While the chicken is cooking, warm the pita bread in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes on each side until soft and slightly toasted.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

Place a warm pita on a plate. Top with cooked chicken strips, a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce, and sliced tomatoes, red onions, and lettuce. Feel free to add any additional toppings you like.

Step 5: Serve

Roll up the pita to wrap the filling, or fold it into a sandwich. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate for longer: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavors even more.
Use fresh pita: Opt for soft, fresh pita bread for the best texture and flavor. If the pita bread is too thick, it might be difficult to roll.
Tzatziki variations: You can make your own tzatziki sauce or buy pre-made from the store. For extra flavor, add some fresh dill or cucumber to the sauce.
Grill the chicken: For an added smoky flavor, consider grilling the marinated chicken on a barbecue instead of cooking it in a skillet.

How to Serve

Serve Greek Chicken Gyros as a casual meal or a fun dinner party dish. These gyros make an excellent sandwich or wrap, perfect for serving alongside a fresh Greek salad, crispy fries, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping, or pair with hummus for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the pita bread and fresh toppings separate to maintain the quality of the dish.

Freezing

For freezing, store the cooked chicken and pita bread separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. The chicken can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Pita bread can be warmed in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to soften.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain tender and juicy when cooked.

2. How do I make the tzatziki sauce?

Tzatziki sauce is made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill. Mix all the ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and warm it up when you’re ready to serve.

4. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight.

5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

6. Can I serve this dish without pita bread?

Yes, you can serve the chicken and toppings in a bowl over rice or in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb alternative.

7. Can I make the gyro spicy?

Yes, you can add hot sauce or chili flakes to the tzatziki sauce for an added kick of heat.

8. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?

For the best consistency and flavor, it’s recommended to use Greek yogurt, as it’s thicker and creamier.

9. Can I use store-bought pita bread?

Yes, store-bought pita bread works perfectly fine. Just make sure to warm it before assembling the gyros.

10. How do I store leftover gyros?

Store the leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pita and toppings separate to preserve their freshness.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings the taste of Greece straight to your kitchen. With marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread, this meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or serving it at a party, Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and easy preparation. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious taste of the Mediterranean!