Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavorful, Mediterranean street food favorite that you can easily make at home. Juicy marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, then wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with crisp veggies, tangy tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of herbs. These gyros are fresh, satisfying, and bursting with authentic Greek flavor—perfect for lunch, dinner, or your next backyard gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold Mediterranean flavors
• Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
• Easy to prep ahead—great for meal planning
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• A healthier alternative to takeout

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken marinade:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Red wine vinegar
• Dried oregano
• Ground cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper

For the gyros:

• Pita bread or flatbread, warmed
• Tzatziki sauce
• Sliced red onion
• Sliced cucumber
• Diced tomato
• Shredded lettuce
• Feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

directions

1. Marinate the chicken:
   In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and seasonings. Add chicken and toss to coat.
   Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Cook the chicken:
   Grill, pan-fry, or bake the marinated chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred, about 5–7 minutes per side.
   Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Assemble the gyros:
   Warm the pita or flatbread.
   Spread tzatziki sauce in the center, then add sliced chicken and your choice of toppings—onion, cucumber, tomato, lettuce, and feta.
   Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
4. Serve:
   Fold or roll the gyro and serve immediately with extra tzatziki or a side of lemon potatoes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 gyros.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinade Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use lamb, beef, or pork instead of chicken for a traditional twist
• Make it vegetarian with grilled halloumi or falafel
• Add olives or roasted red peppers for more Greek flavor
• Use naan or gluten-free wraps if needed
• Make gyro bowls by skipping the pita and serving everything over rice or salad

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Assemble gyros fresh before serving to prevent soggy pita.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for gyros?

Chicken thighs offer the most flavor and stay juicier, but breasts also work well if not overcooked.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven?

Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through, then slice thinly.

What is tzatziki sauce made of?

It’s a Greek yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill or mint.

Can I make the marinade dairy-free?

Yes—substitute coconut yogurt or a mix of olive oil and lemon juice.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita or serve in a bowl to keep it gluten-free.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate and cook the chicken in advance, and assemble gyros just before eating.

Are Greek gyros spicy?

No, they’re more herbaceous and tangy, but you can add hot sauce or chili flakes if desired.

What sides go well with chicken gyros?

Try Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes, or hummus and pita chips.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop for a similar result.

How do I keep pita from tearing?

Warm it before assembling, and avoid overstuffing for easier folding.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are an easy and delicious way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen. With juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and cool tzatziki wrapped in soft pita bread, this dish is both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for any night of the week, these gyros are sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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