Greek Chicken Gyros

This Greek chicken gyros recipe features tender, yogurt-marinated chicken with garlic, lemon, and oregano, served in warm pita with fresh vegetables and Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or flavorful homemade Mediterranean wraps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Gyro Marinade

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole milk preferred)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 Tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins

For Serving

• Pita bread
• Tzatziki sauce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, cored and sliced
• 1 small red onion, halved and sliced
• Pitted Kalamata olives

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, shaking off excess marinade. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until well-browned.
3. Flip chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, until fully cooked through.

Assemble the Chicken Gyros

1. Warm pita over a medium gas burner or hot, dry skillet.
2. Spread Tzatziki sauce on each pita.
3. Add 2–3 chicken tenders per pita.
4. Top with tomato, cucumber, green pepper, red onion, and olives as desired.
5. Wrap and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek flavors with fresh herbs and spices.
• Creamy yogurt marinade keeps chicken juicy and tender.
• Quick and easy to make for weeknight dinners.
• Perfect for customizable toppings for everyone’s taste.

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Tips

• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use a non-stick skillet or grill for even cooking and browning.
• Warm the pita slightly before assembling to enhance softness.
• Slice vegetables thinly for easy folding in the gyro wrap.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or turkey tenders.
• Bread: Use flatbreads, naan, or whole-wheat pita.
• Spices: Adjust cayenne or paprika for more heat.
• Toppings: Add feta cheese, pickled onions, or hot peppers for extra flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, marinate and cook chicken up to a day in advance. Reheat before assembling gyros.

Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in protein, low in carbs if served without extra bread, and packed with fresh vegetables.

Can I freeze cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.

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Serving

• Serve immediately after assembly for best texture.
• Pair with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a light side of rice.
• Great for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

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Suggestions

• Drizzle extra olive oil over the gyro before serving for added richness.
• Offer lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their wraps.
• Wrap gyros in foil for easy handheld lunches or picnics.