Mediterranean Chicken Gyros Recipe – Healthy & Quick
A healthy and quick Mediterranean chicken gyros recipe made with lemony marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or relaxed weekend meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cucumber, grated and well-drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pita bread or whole-wheat flatbreads
- Tomatoes, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Lettuce or shredded cabbage
- Optional: olives, feta, fresh herbs
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin if using, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for 20–30 minutes or up to 12 hours refrigerated.
- Cook the chicken using your preferred method: skillet over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill or parsley, and salt to make the tzatziki.
- Warm the pita bread, then assemble with sliced chicken, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and tzatziki.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Drain the cucumber well to keep the tzatziki thick and creamy. Slice the chicken against the grain for the most tender texture.