Crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken all nestled in warm, soft pita bread – these Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. The combination of bright lemon, fragrant oregano, and creamy tzatziki creates a symphony of taste and texture that’s both satisfying and incredibly refreshing.
This recipe works so well because of the simple marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. The lemon juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also brightens the overall profile, while the oregano and garlic powder add that classic Mediterranean essence. These gyros are perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a light and vibrant lunch.
Why you’ll love this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Chicken Gyros Recipe
* Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* The simple marinade delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
* A healthy and satisfying meal packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein.
* Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces.
* This chicken gyros recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
* A delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at home.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* **Chicken:** You can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
* **Pita Bread:** Whole wheat pita bread is a great alternative for added fiber.
* **Tzatziki Sauce:** If you’re dairy-free, look for a plant-based tzatziki.
* **Lemon Juice**: Fresh is best, but bottled lemon juice will also work.
How to make Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Chicken gyros recipe makes every moment feel sunny. In a bowl, combine chicken strips, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure chicken is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
Chef’s Tip: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Warm the Pita Bread
Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
Chef’s Tip: For a smoky flavor, grill the pita bread for a few seconds on each side.
Step 4: Assemble the Gyros
To assemble the gyros, spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita bread. Add cooked chicken, cucumber slices, diced tomato, red onion, and parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Fold the pita bread in half and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
* Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
* Warm the pita bread before assembling the gyros to make them easier to fold.
* Prepare all the toppings in advance so you can quickly assemble the gyros when the chicken is ready.
* For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese. Or, for another delicious chicken dish, check out this chicken tzatziki bowl recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with:
* A side of Greek salad.
* Roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
* Lemon rice or couscous.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave. It’s best to store the toppings separately to prevent the pita bread from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I freeze the cooked chicken?**
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.
**Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or falafel.
**How can I make the tzatziki sauce from scratch?**
Grate a cucumber and squeeze out the excess liquid. Combine the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Conclusion
This Easy Mediterranean chicken gyros recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal at home. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
Craving a taste of the Mediterranean? These Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal. Tender, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce come together in warm pita bread for a satisfying and delicious experience. This recipe is ready in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a light and refreshing lunch. The chicken is incredibly juicy, and the combination of flavors will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece. Say goodbye to bland chicken dinners and hello to vibrant, Mediterranean goodness! Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create this restaurant-quality dish at home.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken strips, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure chicken is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly browned.
- Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or microwave.
- To assemble the gyros, spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita bread. Add cooked chicken, cucumber slices, diced tomato, red onion, and parsley.
- Fold the pita bread in half and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, grill the pita bread for a few seconds on each side. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can substitute the chicken with beef or lamb for a different flavor profile. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade. You can also add feta cheese for a saltier taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gyro
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg