This Greek-inspired Chicken Gyros recipe delivers bold, Mediterranean flavors in a simple, weeknight-friendly format.
The marinated chicken is infused with aromatic spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and turmeric, giving every bite a vibrant taste.
Topped with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce, it balances lean protein with fiber-rich produce for a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal.
High in protein and low in saturated fat, this dish supports muscle health while keeping calories in check.
The addition of Greek yogurt provides probiotics for digestive wellness, while olive oil offers heart-healthy fats.
Quick to prep and versatile for meal prep, it’s perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone looking to enjoy wholesome, restaurant-quality gyros at home.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Grill Pan
Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while achieving those signature charred grill marks. Great for indoor grilling and adding smoky flavor without an outdoor grill.
Mixing Bowls (Set of 3)
Perfect for marinating chicken, tossing vegetables, and preparing tzatziki. Multipurpose bowls streamline meal prep and organization in any kitchen.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Ensures precise slicing of vegetables and chicken, reducing prep time while maintaining uniform pieces for even cooking. A versatile tool for everyday chopping.
Measuring Spoons & Cups
Critical for accurately measuring spices, lemon juice, and yogurt, ensuring consistent flavor. Ideal for baking, cooking, and portion control.
Cutting Board
Provides a safe, sturdy surface for chopping and assembling ingredients, protecting countertops and making cleanup easier.
30-Minute Chicken Gyros
Equipment
- 1 Grill pan
- 3 set Mixing bowls
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 set Measuring spoons & cups
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp dried dill weed
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 inch cucumber peeled and finely diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- 6 pitas or flatbreads
- 1 small romaine heart chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber thinly sliced
- Crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine creamy Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried dill, and fresh lemon juice, stirring thoroughly until smooth and fragrant; fold in finely diced cucumber, season generously with salt and black pepper to taste, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-top bag, then pour over the marinade made of olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic, cinnamon, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes; mix thoroughly to coat every piece, seal, and refrigerate for 1–4 hours to let the spices penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the Grill: Lightly oil the grates of your grill or grill pan and preheat to medium heat, ensuring a hot surface to sear the chicken evenly, locking in juices while achieving a golden-brown crust without sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then place each piece on the hot grill; cook for 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F, turning once to create even grill marks and a succulent, fully cooked texture, before transferring to a plate to rest.
- Chop and Assemble Chicken: Once rested, slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes, keeping them tender and juicy; this step ensures each gyro bite is perfectly proportioned with meat, vegetables, and sauce.
- Prepare the Pita and Veggies: While the chicken rests, toast or warm the pitas lightly until soft and pliable; chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice cucumber and red onion, arranging everything for easy assembly.
- Build the Gyros: Spread a generous layer of tzatziki onto each pita, then top with a hearty scoop of chopped chicken, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta if desired; fold or roll carefully for a balanced, flavorful bite.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm for maximum flavor and texture, optionally with extra tzatziki on the side; these gyros are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or sharing at casual
Notes
- Chicken Preparation: If your chicken breasts are very thick, slice them in half lengthwise (butterfly) for faster, more even cooking.
- Marinade Make-Ahead: Both the chicken marinade and tzatziki sauce can be prepared 2–3 days in advance to save time on busy evenings.
- Vegetable Prep: Chop lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion a few hours ahead for quick assembly.
- Freezing Tips: Raw chicken can be frozen in the marinade for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Cooked chicken can also be frozen for later use.
- Customization Options: Swap pita for whole wheat or gluten-free flatbreads, or add roasted peppers, olives, or avocado for extra flavor.
Chef’s Secrets For Flavor Boost
To maximize the flavor of your gyros, always allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, ideally longer.
The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, and coriander penetrates the meat for deep, aromatic layers.
Using a high-quality Greek yogurt for the tzatziki sauce ensures a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
For an extra smoky note, lightly char the vegetables on the grill before assembling.
Resting the chicken after grilling locks in the juices and makes every bite tender and succulent.
Serving Suggestions And Pairings
These gyros pair beautifully with a light side salad, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, or a small serving of couscous for a balanced meal.
For a refreshing twist, drizzle extra tzatziki or a squeeze of fresh lemon on top.
They’re perfect for casual dinners, lunchboxes, or even a party platter.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add a vibrant, aromatic finish.
For a low-carb option, wrap the chicken and toppings in lettuce leaves instead of pita.
Storage Tips And Meal Prep
Store any leftover chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid assembling gyros in advance to prevent soggy pita.
For meal prep, chop vegetables and store in separate containers for quick assembly during the week.
Both raw and cooked chicken can be frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Tzatziki can also be stored in the freezer for short-term use but may require stirring after thawing to restore consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and juicier than breasts. Reduce cooking time slightly and monitor internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
2. How long can gyros be stored?
Assembled gyros are best eaten immediately. Store leftover chicken, vegetables, and tzatziki separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the pita for a gluten-free flatbread or use large lettuce leaves to make wraps. The flavor remains just as vibrant.
4. How can I make tzatziki creamier?
Use full-fat Greek yogurt and strain it through cheesecloth for 30 minutes before mixing. This removes excess liquid and results in a thicker, more luxurious sauce.
5. Can I grill indoors instead of outdoors?
Yes! A grill pan or stovetop griddle works perfectly. Make sure to preheat and lightly oil the surface for even cooking and golden grill marks.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by tastesbetterfromscratch. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
