🇬🇷 Herb-Infused Mediterranean Chicken Gyro
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe
📜 Description:
This vibrant Mediterranean chicken gyro recipe is packed with bold herb and garlic flavors, citrus brightness, and a savory charred exterior. Made with succulent chicken thighs marinated in lemon zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs, it’s grilled or roasted to perfection and stacked high on pita or flatbread. Perfect for wraps, bowls, or plating gyro-style!
🧾 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 0.7kg)
- ⅛ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey Dijon mustard
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (or 3 large)
- Zest from 2 lemons
- ½ tbsp salt (use less if using fine/table salt)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup water or chicken stock (for roasting pan or grill tray)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or mint (chopped)
- Pickled onions or cucumbers
- Tomato slices
- Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt
- Warm pita or flatbread
🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, oregano, paprika (if using), and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken thighs to the bowl, coating evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Option A: Oven Roasted (Gyro Stack Style)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Stack marinated thighs on skewers vertically or pile them on a foil-lined pan.
- Pour water/chicken stock in the pan to keep the bottom moist.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C) and the edges are slightly charred.
- Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for crispy tops.
Option B: Grilled
- Preheat grill to medium-high.
- Grill thighs 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly charred.
4. Slice and Serve:
Let the chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips. Serve with warm pita, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauce.
📝 Notes:
- Chicken Thighs stay juicy and tender under high heat—perfect for this dish.
- Lemon zest, not juice, is used for a vibrant citrus pop without excess acidity.
- Dijon mustard helps emulsify the marinade and adds a tangy depth.
💡 Tips:
- Add a touch of cinnamon or cumin for a warm spice twist.
- Leftovers are amazing in rice bowls, salads, or meal-prep containers.
- Use a vertical skewer or stack on a rotisserie if you want authentic gyro carving style.
🍽️ Servings:
Serves: 4–6
Serving Size: ~150g cooked chicken with toppings
🔬 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Does not include bread, sauces, or toppings.
✅ Benefits:
- High-Protein & Low-Carb – Great for keto or balanced diets.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Garlic, oregano, and lemon zest offer immune-boosting properties.
- Customizable – Fit for wraps, bowls, or Mediterranean platters.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead?
A: Yes, but marinate longer and don’t overcook—they dry faster.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Definitely! Store in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: What sauces go well?
A: Tzatziki, garlic tahini, or lemon-yogurt are all perfect.
Q: How do I make it spicy?
A: Add chili flakes, harissa, or cayenne to the marinade.
Would you like a side pairing suggestion (like a Greek salad or roasted potatoes) to complete this meal?