If you’re craving a quick and easy Mediterranean chicken gyros recipe that’s healthy, flavorful, and ready in minutes, you’re in exactly the right place. This homemade version delivers tender, juicy chicken, bright Mediterranean spices, and creamy yogurt sauce—all without complicated steps or long cooking times.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or meal prep, these chicken gyros taste fresh, satisfying, and restaurant-worthy while staying simple enough for anyone to master.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Gyros Recipe
There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation:
- Fast & convenient – Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
- Healthy & balanced – High in protein, rich in flavor, not heavy
- Family-friendly – Mild Mediterranean spices, no alcohol or pork
- Versatile – Serve in pita, bowls, wraps, or salads
- Meal-prep friendly – Chicken stores and reheats beautifully
The yogurt-marinated chicken stays juicy while cooking quickly, and the fresh toppings add crunch, color, and brightness to every bite.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Gyros
- 4–6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Creamy Yogurt Sauce (Tzatziki-Style)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated cucumber (seeds removed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
Ingredient Notes & Healthy Substitutions
- Chicken thighs vs breasts: Thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner—both work well.
- Dairy-free option: Use unsweetened plant-based yogurt for both marinade and sauce.
- Low-carb version: Skip the pita and serve over greens or cauliflower rice.
- Extra flavor: Smoked paprika adds a subtle char-grilled taste.
- No pork, no alcohol: This recipe is naturally family-safe and compliant.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until fully coated.
Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, 1–4 hours deepens the flavor even more.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
Remove excess marinade and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3 – Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken rests, stir together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Chill until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Step 4 – Slice the Chicken
Slice the chicken thinly against the grain into gyro-style strips. This keeps each bite tender and easy to wrap.
Step 5 – Assemble the Gyros
Warm the pita bread slightly. Fill with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and a generous spoonful of yogurt sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip resting the chicken – This keeps it juicy and tender
- High heat is key – Helps create flavorful browning quickly
- Thin slices matter – Authentic gyro texture comes from slicing thin
- Drain cucumbers well – Prevents watery sauce
- Warm the pita – Makes folding easier and improves flavor
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Gyros: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the marinade
- Garlic Lover’s: Double the garlic in both marinade and sauce
- Herb-Forward: Add thyme or rosemary for extra aroma
- Lemon Boost: Finish with fresh lemon zest before serving
- Mediterranean Bowl: Serve over rice with olives and feta
- Classic pita wraps with sauce and veggies
- Gyro bowls with rice or quinoa
- Chopped gyro salad with extra dressing
- Family-style platter with sides like roasted veggies
- Meal-prep containers for lunches
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep sauce separate.
Freezer:
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating:
Warm gently in a skillet or microwave. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken moist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
FAQ About Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
Can I make chicken gyros ahead of time?
Yes. The chicken can be marinated and cooked up to three days in advance. Store separately from toppings for best texture.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely. It’s high in lean protein, uses yogurt instead of heavy sauces, and includes fresh vegetables.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and works perfectly for outdoor cooking.
What’s the best bread for gyros?
Soft pita bread or Mediterranean flatbread works best, but wraps or naan are great alternatives.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Use unsweetened plant-based yogurt in both the marinade and sauce.
Quick & Easy Mediterranean Chicken Gyros
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- skillet or grill pan
- cutting board
- knife
- grater
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4–6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber, seeds removed (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for sauce)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
- salt, to taste (for sauce)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Chill until ready to serve.
- Slice the rested chicken thinly against the grain into gyro-style strips.
- Warm pita bread and fill with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and yogurt sauce. Garnish if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This quick & easy Mediterranean chicken gyros recipe proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With bold flavors, simple ingredients, and flexible serving options, it’s a reliable go-to meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Whether you serve it in warm pita, a hearty bowl, or a fresh salad, this recipe delivers comfort, freshness, and satisfaction in every bite.
