Delicious Greek Chicken Gyros

This authentic Greek chicken gyro recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean street food right to your home kitchen. The combination of marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki creates a perfect balance that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Athens with every bite.

I first made these gyros after returning from a trip to Greece where I became obsessed with the street food. After several attempts at recreating that authentic flavor, this recipe finally captured the essence of what made those gyros so unforgettable.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs they stay tender and juicy even when slightly charred, making them ideal for gyros
• Olive oil provides the Mediterranean base for the marinade and adds authentic flavor
• Fresh lemon juice acts as a natural tenderizer while adding brightness to the chicken
• Minced garlic infuses the chicken with aromatic depth that defines Greek cooking
• Dried oregano the quintessential Greek herb that gives the authentic flavor profile
• Greek yogurt use full fat for the creamiest tzatziki with the perfect tangy flavor
• Cucumber adds refreshing crunch to the tzatziki, be sure to drain well to prevent watery sauce
• Fresh dill brings a distinctive herbaceous note that elevates homemade tzatziki
• Pita breads look for thick, soft pitas that can hold up to the fillings without tearing
• Fresh vegetables crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes and red onion add texture and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly to emulsify the marinade ingredients. Add chicken thighs and massage the marinade into every piece, ensuring complete coverage. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, though overnight marination yields the most flavorful results as it allows the acids and herbs to fully penetrate the meat.

Prepare the Tzatziki

Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture this crucial step prevents watery tzatziki. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper, stirring thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together completely.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill, grill pan, or heavy skillet over medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the cooking surface. Cook undisturbed for 6 7 minutes until deeply golden with char marks. Flip and cook an additional 6 7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.

Assemble the Gyros

Warm pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable but not crisp. Lay each pita flat and arrange sliced chicken down the center, leaving room on the edges for folding. Layer with sliced tomatoes, red onion rings, and fresh lettuce, distributing evenly across the chicken.

Serve

Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over the assembled ingredients. Fold the bottom edge of the pita up slightly, then fold one side over and continue rolling to form a wrapped sandwich that can be secured with parchment paper or foil for easier eating. Serve immediately while still warm with extra tzatziki on the side.

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Tzatziki sauce is truly the heart of this recipe. My grandmother taught me to always salt the cucumber and drain it thoroughly before mixing into the yogurt. The first time I skipped this step resulted in a watery mess that slid right off the gyro. Now I make extra tzatziki every time because my family uses it as a dip for everything from vegetables to pita chips for days afterward.

Make Ahead Options

The beauty of this gyro recipe lies in its flexibility for busy schedules. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. The tzatziki sauce actually improves when made a day ahead, as the flavors have more time to develop and meld. Store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For meal prep, slice the vegetables and store them in separate containers. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken, warm the pitas, and assemble your gyros for a fresh meal in minutes.

Perfect Pairings

These gyros pair wonderfully with traditional Greek sides to create a complete Mediterranean feast. Serve alongside a simple Greek salad with chunks of feta, kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Lemon potatoes roasted with olive oil and oregano make an excellent accompanying side dish that echoes the flavors in the gyro. For a lighter option, consider a side of tabbouleh or a simple rice pilaf flavored with lemon and dill. Complete the meal with a glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or a light beer.

Authentic Variations

While this recipe presents a classic Greek chicken gyro, several authentic variations can expand your Mediterranean repertoire. For a traditional pork gyro, substitute thinly sliced pork shoulder marinated in the same mixture. Many Greek islands feature lamb gyros, using ground lamb formed around a spit and shaved thin. In northern Greece, you might find beef used instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, marinate thick slices of portobello mushrooms or extra firm tofu in the same marinade. The key elements that remain consistent across all variations are the warm pita, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

It's best to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for deeper flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster. Be careful not to overcook them to keep them juicy.

→ What can I use instead of Tzatziki sauce?

You can use plain Greek yogurt with a drizzle of olive oil, or a light garlic sauce as an alternative.

→ How do I keep pita bread soft and warm?

Warm the pita bread on a dry skillet, grill, or microwave. Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and warm.

→ Can I make the chicken gyros ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and Tzatziki sauce in advance. Assemble the gyros just before serving for the best taste and freshness.

→ What sides pair well with gyros?

Serve gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or seasoned rice for a complete meal.