How Many Calories Are in a Slice of Gyro Meat?

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

A 100-gram serving of generic gyro meat contains approximately 262 calories, but the exact number can vary significantly depending on the meat composition. A slice from a commercial product, such as a Kronos gyro slice (3 oz), can contain around 310 calories. Understanding the ingredients is key to determining the true caloric value of your meal.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a slice of gyro meat depends on its type (lamb, beef, chicken) and portion size. While a blended lamb and beef product often has a higher calorie and fat content, options like chicken are much leaner. Cooking methods and overall meal components also influence the nutritional intake.

Key Points

Variety is Key: The calorie count depends primarily on the type of meat, with lamb and beef blends being higher in calories and fat than chicken or turkey options.
Portion Control Matters: Restaurant servings often contain significantly more calories than single-slice nutritional information suggests. Be mindful of portion size.
Check for Processed Slices: Many store-bought or pre-packaged gyro slices, like those from Kronos, have distinct nutrition facts that should be checked for accuracy.
Consider Healthier Swaps: Opt for lean protein sources like chicken and load up on fresh vegetables instead of relying on high-calorie sauces and cheese.
Ask for Extra Veggies: Requesting more cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce can increase fiber and vitamins without adding significant calories.
Sauce Adds Calories: The amount and type of tzatziki or other sauces can add a surprising number of calories, so use them in moderation.

Calorie Breakdown by Gyro Meat Type

Not all gyro meat is created equal, and the type of meat used is the primary factor influencing its calorie count. Traditional gyros are often made from lamb, or a combination of lamb and beef, but chicken and pork are also common options.

Lamb and Beef Gyro Meat

This is the most classic style of gyro meat and is often found at diners and Greek restaurants. Because it combines fattier meats like lamb and beef, it tends to have a higher calorie content. A 4-ounce serving of a traditional lamb-beef blend can range from 350 to 400 calories. A single pre-cooked slice from a brand like Kronos can contain around 310 calories for an 85-gram serving. The calorie density is high, with a significant portion of calories coming from fat.

Chicken Gyro Meat

For those seeking a lighter alternative, chicken gyros are a popular choice. Using chicken breast, rather than fattier cuts, can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content. According to one source, a 3-ounce serving of chicken gyro meat has only around 142 calories, making it the leanest option. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a gyro while managing your calorie intake, especially for weight loss.

Pork Gyro Meat

Pork is also used in gyros, particularly in Greece, and falls somewhere between lamb/beef and chicken in terms of calorie density. A 6-ounce serving of pork gyro meat is estimated to contain about 402 calories, placing it as a moderately high-calorie option.

Factors That Influence the Final Calorie Count

While the meat itself is the biggest factor, the total number of calories in a gyro meal depends on several other components:

Portion Size: The amount of meat used is a direct influence. A standard restaurant serving of meat is often much larger than the values listed on nutritional labels for pre-packaged slices.
Cooking Method: Gyro meat is traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, which allows excess fat to drip away. This can slightly reduce the overall fat and calorie content compared to pan-frying.
Sauces and Toppings: Sauces like tzatziki and high-fat toppings such as feta cheese and olives can add significant calories. A generous dollop of tzatziki can add around 19 calories per two tablespoons, while feta and olives also contribute to the final tally.
Pita Bread: The type of pita bread used matters. A standard white pita can add around 250 calories, whereas a whole wheat pita can offer more fiber and nutrients. Choosing a whole wheat option or a smaller pita can help control calories.

Comparison Table: Calories in Different Gyro Meat Types


Meat Type (Approx. 4oz / 113g)	Estimated Calories	Fat Content (grams)	Notes
Lamb and Beef Blend	350-400	20-25	High in saturated fat; traditional option.
Chicken (Lean)	~190	Lower	Significantly leaner and lower in calories.
Pork	~268	Moderate	Often used in authentic Greek versions.
Processed Slice (3oz)	~310	25	Pre-packaged option, may contain additives.

Making Your Gyro Healthier

For those watching their calorie intake, it's possible to make gyros a healthier, more balanced meal. A key strategy is to focus on lean protein and maximize nutrient-dense, low-calorie additions. For example, opting for a chicken gyro over a lamb/beef blend is a simple swap that can save hundreds of calories.

Consider ditching the pita entirely and serving the gyro meat in a fresh salad bowl. This eliminates the calories from the bread and allows you to load up on extra vegetables, like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. You can also control the amount and type of sauce you use. While tzatziki is a classic, you can opt for a lighter version or use less to reduce the calorie count from dairy and fats.

Ultimately, a gyro can be a healthy meal or an occasional indulgent treat, depending on the choices you make. By understanding the calorie contribution of each component, you can enjoy this delicious Greek dish while staying on track with your nutritional goals.

Conclusion

In summary, the calorie content of a slice of gyro meat is not fixed and varies based on the type of meat and preparation. A standard slice of the popular lamb and beef blend is higher in calories and fat, while a chicken version offers a much leaner alternative. For an accurate calorie count, consider the portion size, the cut of meat, and the added components like sauces and toppings. By making informed choices, you can adjust your gyro to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying its savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 4-ounce serving of traditional lamb and beef gyro meat contains approximately 350-400 calories. However, a single, smaller commercial slice could be around 310 calories.

Yes, chicken gyro meat is a leaner option. A 3-ounce serving of chicken gyro meat is estimated to have around 142 calories, significantly less than the lamb and beef variety.

Yes, cooking the meat on a vertical rotisserie allows excess fat to drip away as it cooks. This can result in a slightly lower fat and calorie content compared to other cooking methods.

Tzatziki sauce can add calories depending on the serving size. Approximately two tablespoons of tzatziki sauce add about 19 calories, but generous portions can significantly increase this.

Yes, you can make a gyro healthier by choosing a leaner meat like chicken, loading up on extra vegetables, using less sauce, and opting for a whole wheat pita or a salad-style bowl.

The calorie count varies by meat type. For example, a 6-ounce serving of beef gyro meat might be 600 calories, while chicken is significantly less. The blend of meats in a gyro is key to understanding its place compared to other proteins.

Yes, if you check the label. Pre-packaged slices from brands like Kronos or Devanco have specific nutrition facts per serving size. Always read the packaging for accurate information for that particular product.