Craving a tasty meal that’s packed with protein? You’re in for a treat! These high protein chicken gyros are flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe shows you how to create a delicious dish with fresh ingredients. Say goodbye to boring dinners and hello to a meal that fuels your day. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the details!
Why I Love This Recipe
- High Protein Boost: This recipe is packed with protein-rich chicken and Greek yogurt, making it a great option for muscle building and recovery.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously vibrant taste with every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With a marinating time of just 30 minutes and a total prep time of an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the toppings or the type of pita to suit your taste, making it versatile for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for High Protein Chicken Gyros
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 whole wheat pita breads
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
The star of this dish is chicken breast. It is lean and packed with protein. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken. Minced garlic gives a strong flavor that wakes up all other ingredients. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
Dried oregano and paprika bring warmth and depth to the flavor. Whole wheat pita is a healthier choice that adds fiber. Fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and onion add crunch and freshness. Crumbled feta cheese gives a salty bite that enhances the meal. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens everything up.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can make this dish your own. Here are some ideas:
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Spinach or lettuce for extra greens
- Hot sauce for a spicy kick
- Pickled jalapeños for tang
- Hummus instead of yogurt for a different flavor
These options allow you to adjust flavors and textures to suit your taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Chicken breast: High in protein. Great for muscle repair and growth.
- Greek yogurt: Contains probiotics. Good for gut health.
- Garlic: Boosts the immune system and adds flavor.
- Olive oil: Healthy fat that supports heart health.
- Oregano: High in antioxidants. Good for overall wellness.
- Paprika: Rich in vitamins A and E. Adds color and flavor.
- Whole wheat pita: Provides fiber. Helps keep you full longer.
- Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories. Great for freshness.
- Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Good for skin health.
- Red onion: Contains antioxidants and supports heart health.
- Feta cheese: A source of calcium. Adds flavor and richness.
- Fresh parsley: Offers vitamins and adds freshness.
Each ingredient plays a role in making these chicken gyros not only tasty but also nutritious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by mixing the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mix is your marinade. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the bowl. Toss it well to coat every piece. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it sit overnight. This will give it more flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Stir the chicken occasionally. You want it to be fully cooked and golden-brown. Check the chicken’s center; it should reach 165°F to be safe to eat.
Preparing the Toppings
While the chicken cooks, you can prepare the toppings. Start by dicing the cucumber and tomatoes. Then, thinly slice the red onion. Set all these toppings aside. They will add crunch and freshness to your gyros.
Warming the Pita Bread
Next, warm the whole wheat pita breads. You can do this in a dry skillet or an oven. Heat them for a few minutes until they are pliable. You want them to be slightly toasted but soft enough to roll.
Assembling the Gyros
Now, it’s time to assemble the gyros. Take a warm pita and place a generous amount of cooked chicken on it. Add the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion on top. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over everything. This adds a creamy, salty flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
Garnishing and Serving
Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Roll up the pita around the filling. Serve it warm for the best taste. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious high protein chicken gyros!
Tips & Tricks
Best Chicken Marinade Time
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the spices and yogurt to soak in. If you want more taste, let it marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more tasty it becomes.
Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken
To ensure juicy chicken, cook it over medium-high heat. This helps to brown the chicken while keeping it moist. Stir and flip the chicken pieces often. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and no longer pink inside.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your gyros with fresh toppings. Use diced cucumbers and tomatoes for crunch. Add thin slices of red onion for a sharp taste. Crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy touch. Don’t forget to sprinkle parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal warm for the best taste!
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or ideally overnight. This allows the spices and yogurt to fully penetrate the meat.
- Use High Heat: Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add olives, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of tahini for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the gyros immediately after assembling. This keeps the pita warm and the toppings fresh.
Variations
Vegetarian High Protein Gyros
You can make tasty vegetarian gyros using protein-rich foods. Try using marinated tofu or tempeh. Both absorb flavors well. Use the same marinade as chicken for great taste. Slice them thin and cook until golden. Add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini. These gyros stay healthy and filling.
Different Protein Options (Turkey, Beef)
You can switch chicken for turkey or beef. For turkey, use ground turkey or thin slices. Ground turkey cooks fast and is lean. Use a similar marinade for beef. Beef can be sliced thin or used as ground meat. Make sure to adjust cooking times for each protein.
Flavor Additions (Spices & Sauces)
Spices enhance your gyros’ taste. You can add cumin or coriander for warmth. A pinch of cayenne gives a nice kick too. For sauces, try tzatziki or hummus. Both add creaminess and flavor. You can also mix in hot sauce for a spicy twist. Don’t forget to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or mint!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Gyros
I love to keep my leftover gyros fresh. Start by placing the leftover chicken and toppings in separate airtight containers. This keeps the pita from getting soggy. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing the chicken. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, reheating is simple. For the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir it often for about five minutes until it’s warm. If you want to warm the pita, you can quickly toast it in a dry skillet. This adds a nice crunch. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pita chewy.
Meal Prep Tips for Gyros
Meal prepping gyros is a great idea. You can marinate the chicken the night before. This allows the flavors to blend well. Chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions ahead of time. Store them in the fridge so they’re ready when you need them. You can even prepare the whole meal, store it in containers, and grab it when you’re on the go. This makes healthy eating easy and quick!
FAQs
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can use plain yogurt or sour cream. Both will add creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream. These substitutes keep the dish flavorful and rich. I love how these options can change the taste while still being tasty.
Can I make High Protein Chicken Gyros in advance?
Yes, you can! The chicken can marinate overnight. This makes the flavors stronger. You can also prep the toppings in advance. Store them in the fridge. Just warm the pita and cook the chicken when you’re ready to eat.
How do I make a low-carb version?
To make a low-carb version, skip the pita bread. Use lettuce wraps instead. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. This will still give you a filling meal without the carbs. Plus, it keeps the meal fresh and crunchy.
What side dishes pair well with gyros?
Several sides go well with gyros. You can serve a Greek salad with fresh veggies. Roasted veggies or a bowl of hummus also work great. For a light option, try tzatziki sauce with pita chips. These sides will add even more flavor to your meal.
High Protein Chicken Gyros are easy to make and full of flavor. We discussed key ingredients and their benefits. I shared simple steps to marinate, cook, and assemble your gyros. Remember, customizing with different proteins or flavors can enhance your meal. Store leftovers properly for future enjoyment. By following these tips, you can create a delicious, healthy dish that fits your needs. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and make it your ow

High Protein Chicken Gyros
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 4 whole wheat pita breads
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1 2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- to taste fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
- While the chicken is cooking, dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.
- In a dry skillet or oven, warm the whole wheat pita breads for a few minutes until they are pliable and slightly toasted.
- Place a generous amount of cooked chicken on each warm pita. Top with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Roll up the pita around the filling, and serve immediately while warm.