These Greek Chicken Gyros are packed with flavor thanks to a zesty lemon herb marinade. You’ll love how juicy the chicken turns out, wrapped in soft pita with fresh vegetables!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of grilling chicken? I usually pile on extra toppings, because let’s face it, the more, the merrier! 😉 Enjoy these at a picnic or with friends for a tasty feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for skinless chicken breasts. You can also substitute with turkey for a twist!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You could switch it with avocado oil if you prefer something with a higher smoke point. Remember, quality matters; a good extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemons give zesty flavor. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh is always best. You can also use lime juice for a different citrus kick!
Greek Yogurt: It’s key for tzatziki’s creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based yogurt. Coconut yogurt adds a fun twist, but make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Grilled Chicken?
To get that delicious grilled flavor, marinate your chicken well and don’t rush the cooking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Always preheat the grill to medium-high to create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each piece space to cook evenly.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking—this helps retain moisture. Slicing too early can lead to a dry bite!
By following these steps, your chicken gyros will be juicy and full of flavor—perfect for a tasty meal any day of the week!
Greek Chicken Gyros With Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Gyros:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and then at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. After marinating, you’ll need around 15-20 minutes for grilling and assembling. Overall, set aside about 1 hour and 35 minutes, which includes marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will create a delicious marinade full of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, marinate for up to 4 hours to deepen the flavors.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Take the grated cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out the excess moisture—this step is important! In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken:
When the chicken is ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked, with a nice char. To check if it’s done, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
5. Assemble the Gyros:
Warm your pita or flatbreads slightly on the grill or in a pan. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce on each pita. Top with the sliced grilled chicken, fresh red onion, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill, if you wish. Fold each pita around the delicious filling, optionally wrapping it in parchment or foil for a neat presentation, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros with the fresh, zesty lemon herb marinade and creamy tzatziki—a perfect meal full of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before marinating. This ensures even seasoning and cooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. If you have time, marinating for up to 4 hours is ideal! Avoid marinating for longer than 12 hours, as it can affect the texture of the chicken.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover gyros or ingredients in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a pan over medium heat until heated through, or use the microwave for convenience.
