These Easy Greek Chicken Gyros are a tasty treat! The chicken is marinated in a lemon herb mix that gives it a zesty flavor and pairs perfectly with warm pita bread.
Wrap them up with your favorite toppings like fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki. Honestly, it’s hard to resist sneaking bites of the chicken before it’s even in the pita! 😄
I love how quick and simple this recipe is, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy a feast that feels special without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. For a twist, consider using lamb or even diced tofu for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or even sunflower oil will work, but the taste won’t be as rich.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh juice is best for that bright flavor! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can do in a pinch, but use less since it’s usually more concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can stand in. Just use 1/4 teaspoon as it’s stronger.
Tzatziki Sauce: Tzatziki adds coolness to the gyros. You can make your own easily with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and herbs. If you’re short on time, store-bought works great, too.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time. The key is to marinate your chicken long enough to soak up those flavors. Here’s how to achieve that perfect cook:
- Preheat your grill well—this gives a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Leave some space between each piece, so they cook evenly.
- Only flip the chicken once. This allows for proper browning and grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C). Check the thickest part to be sure.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling; this keeps it juicy.
With these tips and substitutions, your Greek Chicken Gyros will be a hit! Enjoy mixing and matching flavors to make this dish your own!
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Gyros:
- 4-6 pita breads, warmed
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. You should plan for an additional 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need around 55 minutes to enjoy these tasty gyros!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). This zesty marinade infuses the chicken with amazing flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts or thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for the best flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked and has nice char marks. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
4. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Then, slice it thinly for your gyros.
5. Warm the Pita:
While the chicken is resting, warm your pita breads by putting them on the grill or in a dry pan for a minute or two until they are soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Gyros:
To put the gyros together, spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce over each warm pita. Add slices of grilled chicken, and then top with sliced red onion, tomato, cucumber, and any fresh herbs if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Fold the pita around the filled ingredients, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Greek chicken gyros with family or friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can also use lamb, beef, or pork for these gyros. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try marinated grilled vegetables or even chickpea patties for a hearty filling!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 30 minutes to up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating longer than that, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the meat, making it tough.
What If I Don’t Have Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki, you can substitute it with plain yogurt mixed with a little garlic, lemon juice, and chopped cucumber. Alternatively, hummus works really well too for added creaminess!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken gyros in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in a pan or microwave. However, it’s best to keep the veggies and pita separate until you’re ready to eat for optimal freshness.
This short FAQ should help clarify any common questions surrounding the Easy Greek Chicken Gyros recipe! Enjoy your cooking!
