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Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 1h 0m
  • Cook Time: 0h 15m
  • Total Time: 1h 15m
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Delicious Greek Chicken Gyros featuring tender grilled chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mixture, served on warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. This easy-to-make recipe brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Wraps

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 Greek pita breads or flatbreads
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups chopped lettuce
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced

Lemon-Herb Marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful lemon-herb marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts into a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even coating.
  3. Preheat Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill each side for approximately 6-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. Rest and Slice Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices, then slice it thinly for serving.
  6. Make Tzatziki Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (well-drained), lemon juice, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Warm Pita Breads: Place the pita breads on the grill and heat for 1-2 minutes per side until soft and warm.
  8. Assemble the Gyros: On each warmed pita bread, layer sliced grilled chicken, followed by red onion slices, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
  9. Add Tzatziki Sauce: Drizzle the assembled ingredients generously with the fresh homemade tzatziki sauce.
  10. Wrap and Serve: Fold the pita over the filling and wrap with foil or parchment paper for easier handling and serving.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and results in a more tender texture.
  • For a lighter tzatziki sauce, use low-fat Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
  • Ensure the grated cucumber is well-drained to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thigh meat for juicier gyros.
  • Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added citrus kick.