These Greek Chicken Gyros are packed with flavor! The chicken gets a tasty lemon herb marinade that makes every bite juicy and refreshing. Topped off with creamy tzatziki sauce, they are hard to resist.
Who doesn’t love a good gyro? I love wrapping mine in warm pita bread with lots of veggies. It’s like a little party in your hands! Perfect for a quick dinner or to share with friends. 🥙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is the base of the marinade, giving it richness. If you’re out, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil as a substitute.
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you want a plant-based option, try marinating tofu or thick slices of eggplant!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat yogurt is creamier and tastier. If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt can be a good alternative, but choose a plain variety!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber makes the tzatziki refreshing. If you don’t have one, try using shredded zucchini as a substitute.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken is marinating it long enough. A good marinade penetrates the meat, adding flavor and moisture. Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight in the fridge is ideal!
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk well.
- Place chicken in the marinade and refrigerate.
- Remember to let the chicken rest after grilling; this helps it keep its juices!
Also, be sure to grill it over medium-high heat for a nice sear, which locks in flavor. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Happy cooking!
Greek Chicken Gyros With Lemon Herb Marinade & Tzatziki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lemon Herb Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs (700-900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full fat preferred)
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Chopped fresh parsley or additional dill
- Optional: lettuce leaves, feta cheese, or olives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15-20 minutes of active preparation and cooking time. However, don’t forget the marinating time! Aim for at least 1 hour in the fridge for best results – up to overnight for maximum flavor. Once everything is ready, you’ll have a delicious meal in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Make sure it’s well combined!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Aim for at least 1 hour but for maximum flavor, try to let it marinate for 3-4 hours or even overnight.
3. Make the Tzatziki:
While your chicken marinates, let’s whip up that tzatziki! Grate the cucumber, using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to squeeze out excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready, preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling.
5. Slice the Chicken:
Once rested, slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces for easy assembly.
6. Assemble the Gyros:
Warm your pita breads on the grill or in a pan for a few seconds. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita, add the sliced chicken, and top it off with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and any other toppings you like.
7. Serve:
Fold the pita around the delicious filling and serve immediately while everything’s warm. Your fresh Greek Chicken Gyros are ready to enjoy!
This recipe is wonderful for meal prep and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Great for a quick dinner or casual get-together!
FAQ for Greek Chicken Gyros With Lemon Herb Marinade & Tzatziki
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great alternative. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster than thighs, so check for doneness around 5-6 minutes per side to ensure they don’t dry out.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt for the Tzatziki?
No problem! You can substitute it with plain regular yogurt, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. For a dairy-free option, try using unsweetened coconut yogurt or a plain dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Gyros?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just be cautious not to overheat, as that can dry out the meat.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The marinade can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a stir before pouring it over the chicken!
