Wrapped in warm pita and topped with creamy homemade tzatziki, these Greek Chicken Gyros are a quick, flavorful, and high-protein dinner option. Made with marinated chicken thighs, fresh veggies, and a punchy yogurt-based sauce, they’re perfect for a crowd or a casual weeknight meal. They taste just like take-out — only fresher and healthier.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 cucumber, shredded and drained

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)

• 1 teaspoon dried dill

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

To Serve:

• 4 pita breads

• 1 tomato, sliced

• 2 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours or overnight (or 10–15 mins if short on time).

2. Make the Tzatziki: Grate cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture with a paper towel. Combine with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, parsley, and salt in a bowl. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet with olive oil over medium-high. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

4. Assemble the Gyros: Warm pita in the microwave for 10–20 seconds. Fill with chicken, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a generous spoon of tzatziki.

5. Serve & Store: Serve immediately. Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 gyro):

• Calories: 473

• Protein: 37g

• Fat: 17g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Sugar: 7g

• Fiber: 5g

Prep and Cook Time

The beauty of Greek Chicken Gyros lies in their simplicity and the minimal time required to bring them together. The chicken benefits from a marination period of at least 2–3 hours, which enhances its tenderness and flavor. However, if you’re short on time, even a 15-minute soak in the marinade can still yield tasty results. The actual cooking time is brief — about 8 to 10 minutes on the stovetop — and assembling the gyros takes just a few more minutes. Including all steps, you can have this meal on the table in just under 30 minutes of active time, making it an ideal candidate for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Yield and Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately four fully assembled gyros, each packed with sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, and generous dollops of tzatziki. Each serving is hearty and satisfying, offering around 473 calories and a robust 37 grams of protein. Whether you’re serving adults with bigger appetites or looking for something filling yet nutritious, this meal delivers on both fronts.

Cuisine and Cultural Roots

Greek Chicken Gyros are inspired by the traditional Greek street food known simply as “gyros,” which means “turn” in Greek, referring to the method of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie. While the classic version is often made with pork or lamb, chicken has become a popular alternative for those seeking a leaner, lighter option. This home-cooked variation pays homage to the flavors and techniques of Greek cuisine while offering a more accessible, weeknight-friendly version. The use of Greek yogurt in both the marinade and the tzatziki sauce is a nod to the region’s culinary staples, known for their richness and health benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about these Greek Chicken Gyros is how customizable and crowd-pleasing they are. From the succulent marinated chicken to the fresh crunch of lettuce and onion, every element is designed to complement the others. The homemade tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, herby tang that elevates the dish, while the pita bread provides the perfect vessel to hold everything together. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients and lean protein. Plus, it’s naturally high in flavor without relying on heavy ingredients, making it a smart option for those looking to eat well without sacrificing taste.

Health Benefits

This dish is packed with wholesome ingredients that offer a variety of nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs, while slightly higher in fat than chicken breasts, provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, while still being an excellent source of high-quality protein. Greek yogurt, used in both the marinade and the tzatziki, is rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions offer a dose of vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Overall, this is a balanced meal that supports digestive health, provides long-lasting energy, and promotes muscle repair.

Serving Suggestions

These Greek Chicken Gyros are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with several sides. Consider serving them with oven-roasted lemon potatoes, a chilled cucumber salad, or a simple orzo pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing contrast. If you’re hosting guests, a small mezze platter with olives, hummus, and feta cheese makes a great appetizer to round out the meal.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least a couple of hours — the longer, the better for flavor infusion. When cooking, aim for a good sear on the chicken to lock in juices and build a beautiful crust. Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet for the best texture. Be sure to rest the chicken before slicing, which helps retain moisture. For the tzatziki, properly draining the cucumber is key to avoiding a watery sauce. Use a cheesecloth or paper towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. When warming the pita, a quick stint in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel or a brief toast on a hot skillet will make them soft and pliable.

Variations

There are endless ways to adapt this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. For a low-carb option, skip the pita and serve the chicken and veggies over a salad bowl or in lettuce wraps. You can swap the chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. The seasoning can also be tweaked — try adding a touch of cinnamon or coriander for a different flavor profile. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt for both the marinade and the tzatziki. For an extra layer of richness, add crumbled feta or sliced kalamata olives before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is incredibly meal-prep friendly. The chicken can be marinated the night before and stored in the fridge, ready to cook when needed. Cooked chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be frozen for up to three months. The tzatziki sauce can also be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for three to four days. Store all components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. It’s a great option for work lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal. With its roots in traditional Greek cuisine, this recipe combines marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita for a complete meal that satisfies on every level. It’s rich in protein, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable — perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Whether you’re already a fan of Mediterranean flavors or trying them for the first time, these gyros offer a delicious introduction that’s sure to become a household favorite.