These Easy Greek Chicken Gyros are bursting with flavor! The lemon herb marinade makes the chicken super tasty and juicy, perfect for wrapping in warm pita.
Who can resist a delicious gyro? I love adding fresh veggies and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. It’s like a little party in every bite! 🎉
Making these gyros is so simple! Just marinade the chicken, grill it up, and enjoy. Dinner is ready in no time, and everyone will be happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they might dry out more quickly. For a vegetarian option, grilled tofu or chickpeas would work well too!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and helps the marinade cling to the chicken. You could substitute with avocado oil, which has a similar taste and high smoke point.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work, but it’s best to use fresh when possible for the best flavor!
Spices: Dried oregano and thyme really give that Greek vibe. If you don’t have thyme, feel free to double the oregano or use Italian seasoning instead for a similar taste.
Tzatziki Sauce: A must for that authentic touch! If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki is fine. You could also try a yogurt-based dip with cucumber and garlic if tzatziki isn’t on hand.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken is all about the right temperature and timing. Follow these simple steps to ensure juicy, flavorful chicken every time:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking. A hot grill sears the chicken nicely.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and gently shake off excess. Too much marinade can cause flare-ups on the grill.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices inside, making every bite succulent.
With these tips, you’ll love how easy it is to make perfectly grilled chicken for your gyros! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or mint (optional)
- Tzatziki sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for cooking. If you can, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even up to 2-3 hours, for the best flavor. So overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour for the full process, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until nicely blended. This marinade is packed with flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for 2-3 hours will really enhance the flavors.
3. Heat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear on your chicken.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place it on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The nice charred edges will add to the flavor!
5. Slice the Chicken:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the chicken thinly for your gyros.
6. Warm the Pitas:
While the chicken rests, warm your pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side. Soft, warm pitas are perfect for holding all those delicious fillings!
7. Assemble the Gyros:
To build your gyros, place some sliced chicken on a warm pita. Top it with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs if you like. It looks great and adds extra flavor!
8. Add the Tzatziki:
Finally, drizzle tzatziki sauce over your fillings. It adds a refreshing creaminess that complements the seasoned chicken perfectly. Fold or roll the pita, and your gyros are ready to enjoy!
These Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade make for a fantastic weeknight meal or casual gathering with friends. Dive in and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just be cautious, as chicken breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they stay juicy.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 2-3 hours. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak can still add some flavor. Just remember not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just remember to cook it fresh before serving. If you have leftovers, slice the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki on hand, you can make a quick alternative by mixing Greek yogurt with minced garlic, diced cucumber, lemon juice, and salt. Alternatively, any creamy yogurt-based sauce or a simple garlic sauce would work well too!
