Chicken Gyros

This Chicken Gyros recipe features tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. A healthy and flavorful Mediterranean meal that’s easy to make for lunch or dinner, bringing the taste of Greek street food straight to your kitchen.

These homemade Chicken Gyros are packed with tender marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce — all wrapped in soft, warm pita bread. Inspired by Greek street food, this easy recipe brings Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen in less than an hour.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts*
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 inch piece of English cucumber, peeled and finely diced

For Serving:

• 6 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 small romaine heart, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ English cucumber, thinly sliced
• Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. Stir in the diced cucumber and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a large bowl or ziplock bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and all the spices. Add the chicken and toss until well coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
   Grill for about 4–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate, rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-size pieces.
4. Assemble the Gyros:
   Warm or toast the pita bread. Fill each with chopped chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, cucumber slices, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. Add crumbled feta if desired.

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Tips

• Marinate the chicken for at least an hour — longer time means deeper flavor.
• For juicier results, use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• If you don’t have a grill, cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or bake it in the oven.
• Use thick Greek yogurt for the tzatziki to keep it creamy and not watery.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Try pork tenderloin, lamb, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Bread Options: Substitute pita with naan, lavash, or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Add-ons: Include kalamata olives or roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes for more or less heat.

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FAQs

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the chicken, slice it, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely. Homemade is fresher, but store-bought works well for convenience.

What if I don’t have a grill?
You can pan-sear the chicken on medium-high heat or bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Gyros with a side of Greek salad, lemon rice, or roasted potatoes. They also pair perfectly with hummus, olives, or a chilled glass of white wine.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek-inspired flavor with simple ingredients.
• Fresh, healthy, and customizable to your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
• Juicy, tender chicken paired with creamy tzatziki and crisp veggies.
• Delicious balance of smoky, tangy, and herby flavors.