Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Name: Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 2 tablespoons dried oregano; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 cucumber; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 8 large flour tortillas

Published: June 15, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Flavor-packed: The lemon-herb marinade infuses the chicken with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile: Customize your gyros by adding your favorite toppings like feta cheese or extra veggies to suit your preferences.
Healthy option: With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Perfect for meal prep: These gyros can be made ahead of time and are great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Grater
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet or grill pan: Ideal for cooking the marinated chicken evenly and achieving that perfect sear.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients when preparing the marinade and tzatziki sauce.
Whisk: Helps blend the marinade ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly

8 large flour tortillas
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat completely. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl:
1. Combine grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade:
1. Add it to the hot skillet.
2. Cook while stirring occasionally until cooked through and lightly browned (about 6-8 minutes).

Step 4: Warm Tortillas

Warm the tortillas according to package directions:
– You can use a dry skillet, microwave, or oven for this step.

Step 5: Assemble Your Gyros

To assemble:
1. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce onto each tortilla.
2. Add cooked chicken strips along with red onion slices and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Fold tortillas in half or wrap them like burritos based on your preference. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Serving Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki is a delightful experience. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for gatherings or family dinners. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious gyros.

Classic Plate Presentation

Gyro Platter: Serve your gyros on a large platter, allowing guests to build their own with chicken, tzatziki, and toppings.
Individual Wraps: For convenience, present wrapped gyros in parchment paper for easy handling.

Accompanying Sides

Greek Salad: A fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a refreshing touch.
Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips are perfect for dipping into the tzatziki sauce.

Garnishes and Extras

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh dill or parsley on top enhances flavor and presentation.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

To ensure your Greek Chicken Gyros turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold marinade time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer is better for maximum flavor.
Bold chicken strips size: Cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch strips for even cooking.
Bold skillet temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear.
Bold tzatziki resting time: Let your tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavors.
Bold tortilla warming method: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for extra elasticity and flavor.
Bold topping variety: Get creative with toppings like sliced bell peppers or olives to customize your gyros.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Pairing side dishes with Greek Chicken Gyros can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of the gyros beautifully.

Greek Salad: A vibrant mix of vegetables topped with feta cheese brings freshness to the table.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites add a traditional touch that pairs well with yogurt sauces.
Hummus and Pita Bread: Creamy hummus served with warm pita is always a crowd-pleaser.
Marinated Olives: A selection of olives marinated in herbs offers a savory contrast.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your meal.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the richness of the gyros nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Over-marinating the chicken: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Aim for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best texture and flavor.
Not draining the cucumber: Failing to remove excess water from the grated cucumber will make your tzatziki sauce watery. Squeeze out moisture using a clean towel or cheesecloth before mixing.
Skipping the resting time for tzatziki: If you don’t let the tzatziki sit before serving, its flavors may not fully develop. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
Cooking chicken at too high heat: Cooking on high heat can result in burnt outsides and raw insides. Medium-high heat is ideal for even cooking and browning.
Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can make your gyros less enjoyable. Warm them up first for a better texture and flavor experience.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Greek Chicken Gyros in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For best results, keep chicken, tzatziki, and veggies separate until ready to assemble.

Freezing Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
Place chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
Tzatziki does not freeze well; prepare fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and reheat chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki?

To make these gyros, marinate chicken strips in olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-cook until done. Serve on warm tortillas topped with tzatziki sauce.

Can I customize my Greek Chicken Gyros?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like lettuce, bell peppers, or olives. You can also swap out the protein for lamb or tofu.

What is tzatziki sauce made of?

Tzatziki sauce is typically made from Greek yogurt mixed with grated cucumber, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. It’s refreshing and pairs perfectly with gyros.

How long can I store leftover Greek Chicken Gyros?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if they are kept in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki is convenient and still delicious. Just make sure it’s a good quality brand.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki are not only flavorful but also versatile! You can customize them with various toppings and even switch up proteins according to your preference. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings—be sure to give it a try!

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