Transport your taste buds to the Greek isles with these Mediterranean Chicken Gyros. This recipe focuses on fresh, vibrant ingredients: lemon-marinated chicken, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty feta cheese, all wrapped in a warm pita.
It is a lighter, fresher take on the gyro that doesn’t require a vertical rotisserie. By searing marinated chicken strips in a skillet, you get that delicious char and flavor in a fraction of the time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & Healthy
This meal relies on herbs, citrus, and fresh vegetables for flavor rather than heavy sauces. It fits perfectly into a Mediterranean diet and leaves you feeling light and energized.
The Marinade
A simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and garlic transforms plain chicken into a zesty, tender filling that smells amazing while it cooks.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 whole pitas
- 0.5 cup tzatziki sauce
- 0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup lettuce/tomato/cucumber mix
Instructions
- Mix oil, lemon, oregano, and garlic. Marinate chicken 20 mins.
- Sear chicken in a skillet until browned and cooked.
- Warm pitas.
- Assemble gyros with chicken, veggies, tzatziki, and feta.
- Fold and serve.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Chicken: Breast or thighs, sliced into strips.
Marinade: Lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic.
Tzatziki: Cucumber yogurt sauce (store-bought or homemade).
Feta Cheese: Crumbled.
Pita Bread: Pocketless style is best for wrapping.
Veggies: Lettuce, tomato, red onion, cucumber.
Smart Substitutions
Lamb is a classic alternative. You can use hummus instead of tzatziki for a dairy-free sauce (omit feta too). Serve over rice for a “Gyro Bowl” if you want to skip the bread.
If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors, check out this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Stir Fry for a similar taste profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Whisk marinade ingredients. Toss chicken strips in marinade and let sit for 20 mins.
Slice veggies.
Cooking Phase
Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken strips for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Warm pitas in the oven or dry pan.
Assembly
Spread tzatziki on pita. Top with chicken, veggies, and plenty of feta cheese. Fold and serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Don’t crowd the pan: Sear chicken in batches to get nice browning.
Warm the Pita: Cold pita cracks. Warm pita folds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating too long. Lemon juice can make chicken mushy if left overnight. 30 mins to 2 hours is ideal.
| Ingredient | Flavor | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Citrus/Herb | Tender |
| Feta | Salty/Tangy | Crumbly |
| Tzatziki | Cool/Creamy | Smooth |
| Cucumber | Fresh | Crunchy |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Wrap in foil for an authentic street-food feel.
Pairing Suggestions
Greek salad or lemon potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill the chicken?
Yes, grilled flavor is even better!
Is it spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes to the marinade.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are a fresh, vibrant meal that brings the flavors of Greece to your table in under 30 minutes.
