Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki Recipe
If you are craving a fresh, vibrant meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors, then you absolutely have to try these Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki. This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, paired perfectly with creamy homemade tzatziki and crisp veggies, all wrapped in warm, soft pita bread. It’s the ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering when you want something wholesome yet totally satisfying. Trust me, once you dig into these gyros, they’ll quickly become one of your new favorite go-to recipes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the vibrant lemon juice that brightens the marinade to the crunchy veggies adding fresh contrast, every component is essential to creating those authentic and irresistible gyros.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose fresh chicken breasts for tender, juicy meat that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: The bright, tangy lemon juice is crucial for that signature lemon-herb marinade flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the chicken with a wonderful, savory aroma that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek oregano delivers a lovely earthy, slightly minty note to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the tang and herbs.
- 4 pita breads: Soft and warm, these act as the perfect vessel for all your gyro fillings.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce: Creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce that cools and complements the savory chicken wonderfully.
- 1 cup chopped lettuce: Adds refreshing crunch and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they lend balance to the zesty marinade and rich tzatziki.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion: Sharp and slightly sweet, onion slices add a satisfying bite to every gyro.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This bright, herbaceous mixture is the foundation of your gyro’s incredible flavor, infusing the chicken with Mediterranean sunshine in every bite.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Slice your chicken breast into even strips and toss them into the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step is key to ensuring the meat is juicy and full of that lively lemon-herb essence.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. When hot, cook the marinated chicken strips for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until they are fully cooked through and have lovely golden grill marks or a nice sear if using a pan. The chicken should be tender and bursting with the tastes of the marinade.
Step 4: Warm the Pita Breads
While your chicken is finishing, warm the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for about a minute each side. This makes them soft, pliable, and perfect for wrapping all your delicious fillings.
Step 5: Assemble the Gyros
Time to bring it all together! Lay a warm pita flat, then layer on the grilled chicken strips, a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki, crisp lettuce, sweet diced tomatoes, and sharp red onion slices. Fold and roll it up, and your Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki are ready to devour.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate these gyros wonderfully. Sprinkle some extra chopped fresh parsley or dill on top for a vibrant herb kick. A squeeze of lemon over the filling right before eating can add a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your gyros with classic Mediterranean sides like crispy roasted potatoes, a Greek salad full of olives and feta, or even warm pita chips to scoop up any leftover tzatziki. These sides beautifully complement the flavors and textures, making it a full, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken and veggies family-style alongside bowls of tzatziki and warm pita, letting everyone build their own gyros. Or, make a gyro platter with artfully arranged ingredients and sides for a beautiful, casual feast perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken, pita breads, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping the components apart helps preserve the textures and flavors for later enjoyment.
Freezing
The marinated chicken strips freeze very well before cooking. Portion them into freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as usual. It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep it juicy. Warm the pita quickly in a pan or microwave to retain softness. Assemble fresh with cool tzatziki and crisp veggies for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki?
Absolutely! Thighs work great due to their extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
Is there a way to make the tzatziki sauce from scratch?
Yes! Tzatziki is pretty easy to make by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. It tastes fresher and more vibrant homemade.
Can I prepare the marinade and chicken ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This actually helps deepen the flavors even more, making your Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki extra delicious.
What if I don’t have a grill or skillet available?
Don’t worry! You can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Just be sure to turn the pieces halfway for even cooking.
Are there vegetarian alternatives to this recipe?
Yes, you can replace chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, portobello mushrooms, or even crispy falafel for a vegetarian version that still pairs wonderfully with the lemon-herb marinade and tzatziki.
Final Thoughts
Creating these Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki is like inviting a sunny Mediterranean breeze right into your kitchen. The harmony of tangy marinade, creamy sauce, and fresh veggies wrapped in soft pita is utterly irresistible. So, go ahead and treat yourself to this flavorful, satisfying dish soon—you won’t regret it!
Print
Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and authentic Greek Chicken Gyros featuring tender chicken breast marinated in a zesty lemon and herb blend, grilled to perfection, and served warm in pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce. A perfect quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 cup chopped lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into thin strips and add them to the marinade. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill or Skillet: Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gains a nice char.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken strips on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through.
- Warm the Pita Breads: While the chicken is cooking, warm the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for about one minute, just until they are soft and slightly toasted.
- Assemble the Gyros: Lay a warm pita bread flat and layer on the cooked chicken strips. Add a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce followed by chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onions for freshness and crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Fold the pita to encase the filling and serve immediately for the best experience of textures and flavors.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) for intensified flavors.
- Use Greek yogurt-based tzatziki for a traditional taste and creamy texture.
- For added spice, sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on the chicken before cooking.
- Pita bread can be substituted with flatbread or wraps if preferred.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking its internal temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gyro (1 pita with filling)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Greek Chicken Gyros, Lemon-Herb Chicken, Tzatziki, Mediterranean Chicken, Grilled Chicken Gyros, Greek Pita Sandwich
