Description
These Juicy, Marinated Chicken Gyros are bursting with Mediterranean flavor, featuring tender grilled chicken thighs seasoned with lemon, garlic, and spices, wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with crisp veggies and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. A wholesome, high-protein meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 red onion, sliced
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads, warmed
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Add chicken thighs and red onion to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
- Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- For tzatziki: mix yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
- Assemble gyros with sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and tzatziki in warm pita. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Chicken can also be cooked in the oven or air fryer.
- Add feta cheese or kalamata olives for extra Greek flavor.
- Tzatziki can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean