Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen with these Mediterranean Chicken Gyros. Juicy, marinated chicken wrapped in soft pita bread and topped with creamy tzatziki, crisp veggies, and tangy feta—it’s a meal that feels both refreshing and satisfying. The first time I made this recipe, I was surprised at how simple it was to create such bold, restaurant-quality flavors at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, these gyros deliver fresh, wholesome goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are packed with flavor and balance—tender grilled chicken, creamy sauce, crunchy vegetables, and warm pita bread all come together beautifully. The chicken is marinated in olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs for that signature Mediterranean taste, while the tzatziki adds a cool, tangy contrast. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and customize—make it lighter with lettuce wraps, spicier with chili flakes, or heartier with extra toppings. It’s a delicious, balanced meal that everyone will love.
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Mediterranean Chicken Gyros – Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are a flavorful, handheld favorite made with marinated grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, creamy tzatziki sauce, and soft pita bread. Bursting with zesty, herby flavors, they’re a delicious and healthy taste of the Mediterranean right at home.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped dill or mint
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup chopped lettuce
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm pita breads slightly. Layer with lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Add sliced chicken and drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce.
- Top with feta cheese if desired, fold, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken outdoors or on a grill pan.
- To make ahead, store marinated chicken in the fridge overnight.
- Use whole wheat or low-carb pita for a lighter version.
- Tzatziki can be made 1–2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
Olive Oil: The base of the marinade that keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with rich aroma and taste.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
Greek Yogurt: Used in both the marinade and tzatziki for creaminess and a tangy flavor.
Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that gives the chicken its authentic flavor.
Cumin and Paprika: Add warmth and depth without overpowering the freshness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita wraps everything together. You can also use naan or flatbread.
Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness to the gyros and forms the base of the tzatziki.
Tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, they complement the savory chicken.
Red Onion: Adds sharpness and color contrast.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds tangy creaminess.
Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and dill—perfect for drizzling or dipping.
Fresh Parsley or Dill: Adds brightness and a burst of freshness to finish.
Directions
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor).
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
To make tzatziki, grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water. Mix it with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Adjust to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Warm the pita bread and layer it with tzatziki, chicken slices, diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta. Garnish with parsley or dill and drizzle with a bit more tzatziki. Fold and serve immediately.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 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.
- Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Servings and timing
Serves 4 people. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Marinating time: 1 hour. Cooking time: 15 minutes. Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling the gyros. Avoid reheating the tzatziki—it’s best served cold.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Chicken Gyros: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
Low-Carb Version: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb flatbread instead of pita.
Garlic-Lover’s Twist: Add extra garlic to both the marinade and tzatziki.
Mediterranean Bowl: Serve the ingredients deconstructed over a bed of rice or quinoa.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for added depth.
Extra Creamy Tzatziki: Stir in a bit of sour cream or mayonnaise for richer texture.
Crispy Finish: Broil the cooked chicken for 2 minutes for charred edges.
Pickled Onions: Use quick-pickled red onions for tangy contrast.
Grain-Free: Serve the chicken and toppings over cauliflower rice.
FAQs
What’s the best cut of chicken for gyros?
Chicken thighs are juicier, but chicken breasts also work well for a leaner version.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but 4–6 hours gives the best flavor.
Can I cook the chicken in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.
What’s the best way to warm pita bread?
Lightly toast it in a dry skillet or wrap it in foil and warm in the oven.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely, but homemade tzatziki is fresher and more flavorful.
Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?
Yes, store all components separately and assemble fresh for best results.
What other toppings can I use?
Olives, lettuce, roasted peppers, or hummus are great additions.
Can I grill the chicken outdoors?
Yes, grilling adds wonderful smoky flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut yogurt and omit the feta for a dairy-free version.
How do I prevent soggy pita?
Assemble the gyros just before serving and pat veggies dry before adding.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are the perfect blend of freshness, flavor, and simplicity. Juicy marinated chicken, tangy tzatziki, and crisp vegetables come together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. It’s a dish that’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for any occasion—from quick lunches to dinner parties. Once you try these homemade gyros, you’ll never go back to takeout—they’re fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly Mediterranean.
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