If you have been dreaming of a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your kitchen, this Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe is a must-try. Imagine juicy, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with fresh, crisp veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce. Each bite balances tangy, savory, and herbaceous notes in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a weeknight meal that impresses, this Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and color. Here’s exactly what you’ll gather to create your own Greek Chicken Gyros at home.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and tender, making the ultimate gyro filling.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: Gives a creamy tang and helps tenderize the meat.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with fresh citrusy notes.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses bold flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity for balance and depth.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: The classic Greek herb that delivers standout aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm spice that gently rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicious flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of spice without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky hint and vibrant color to the marinade.
- 6 pita breads or flatbreads: Soft, warm carriers for all those tasty fillings.
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes: Fresh, juicy pieces that bring brightness and moisture.
- 1 cup chopped cucumber: Adds cool crunch and refreshing contrast.
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced): Sharp and slightly sweet, perfect for layering.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Crisp texture that helps balance the rich chicken.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce: Creamy, garlicky, and tangy—the irresistible finishing touch.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. This marinade is the heart and soul of your Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe, packing layers of flavor and tenderizing the chicken thighs beautifully. Add the chicken thighs and toss until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, although marinating overnight is even better for maximum taste and juiciness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the marinated chicken thighs for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and fully cooked. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to seal in those delicious juices. Then, slice the chicken into strips that are perfect for loading onto your pita.
Step 3: Warm the Pita
Finally, warm your pita breads by placing them in a dry skillet for a minute or two or by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven. Warm pita is more pliable and enhances the overall eating experience, making it a perfect wrap for your flavorful, tender chicken and fresh toppings.
Step 4: Assemble Your Gyros
The assembly is where your Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe truly shines. Layer the sliced chicken on the warmed pita, then pile on shredded lettuce, chopped cucumber, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions. Finish each gyro with a generous spoonful of creamy tzatziki sauce. Fold the pita over the fillings and enjoy this celebration of Greek flavors.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t be shy about adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill on top of your gyros for an added burst of aroma and green color. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can also add a touch of salty creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and tzatziki sauce.
Side Dishes
Greek salads, lemon potatoes, or even a simple side of hummus and olives make excellent companions to your chicken gyros. These traditional sides complement the main dish with additional layers of flavor and texture, transporting your mealtime straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the gyro fillings deconstructed as a platter and let guests build their own wraps, or present the gyro components over a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb bowl option. Both ideas keep things interactive and fun while celebrating the robust flavors of the Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pita separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Store fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce in their own containers to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezing
The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. While pita breads don’t freeze as well, you can wrap them tightly and store them for short periods if needed.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Warm the pita separately in a skillet or oven to regain softness. Add the fresh vegetables and tzatziki after reheating to keep their crispness and freshness intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier, making your Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe extra succulent.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated halloumi cheese for the chicken to create delicious vegetarian gyros with similar bold flavors.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Ideally, marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor and tenderness, marinating overnight is recommended, but even a short marination adds great taste.
Can I make tzatziki sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade tzatziki is fresh and vibrant, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. It’s simple to prepare and elevates the entire dish.
What are some good beverage pairings with Greek Chicken Gyros?
A crisp white wine like Assyrtiko, a cold lager, or a refreshing iced tea with lemon all complement the flavors beautifully and keep the meal balanced and light.
Final Thoughts
Making this Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe at home is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to experience a beloved Mediterranean classic with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to share this taste of Greece with your family and friends—you won’t regret it!
Print
Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 gyros
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
Greek Chicken Gyros feature tender, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, wrapped in warm pita breads with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired main course combines vibrant flavors and satisfying textures for a delicious, high-protein meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For Serving
- 6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse and the chicken to tenderize.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
- Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken thighs into thin strips ready to be assembled in the gyros.
- Warm the Pita Breads: Heat the pita breads by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or by wrapping them in foil and warming in the oven until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Gyros: On each warmed pita, layer sliced chicken, shredded lettuce, chopped cucumber, chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and finish with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
- Serve: Fold the pita around the fillings and serve your delicious Greek Chicken Gyros warm, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Notes
- Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs; however, thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
- For a low-carb variation, serve the gyro fillings over a salad or use large lettuce leaves as wraps instead of pita bread.
- Homemade tzatziki sauce delivers the best flavor experience though store-bought tzatziki works well in a pinch.
