Name: Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 pita breads; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 tomato, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 1 cup tzatziki sauce

Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is incredibly satisfying and bursting with bold, zesty flavors. The marinade is packed with herbs and lemony goodness, creating juicy, tender chicken every time. Combined with crisp veggies and cool tzatziki, it’s a complete and balanced meal that’s simple to make and perfect for any day of the week. It also makes for a fun, customizable meal where everyone can build their own gyro.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Garlic cloves
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper
Greek yogurt (for marinade and/or tzatziki)
Cucumber
Fresh dill
Red wine vinegar
Pita bread
Tomatoes
Red onion
Romaine lettuce or mixed greens (optional)

Directions

Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare the tzatziki sauce: Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, a splash of red wine vinegar, and salt. Chill until ready to serve.
Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Assemble the gyros: Warm the pita bread. Add a generous layer of tzatziki sauce, followed by sliced chicken, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, and greens if desired.
Serve immediately: Wrap in parchment paper or foil for easy eating, or enjoy open-faced like a flatbread.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, roasted chickpeas, or seasoned tofu.
Different meats: Try lamb, beef, or pork for a different protein option.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Toppings: Add olives, feta cheese, or a drizzle of hummus for more layers of flavor.
Low-carb option: Serve the chicken and toppings over a bed of greens instead of pita for a gyro salad.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Tzatziki can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Pita bread should be kept in a sealed bag at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

To reheat the chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating tzatziki as it is best served cold.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. Overnight marinating gives the most flavor.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.

What kind of pita should I use?

Use soft, Greek-style pita that is pocketless and flexible enough to wrap.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki a day ahead. Cook the chicken and assemble the gyros just before serving.

Is Greek Chicken Gyros gluten-free?

The filling is naturally gluten-free. Use gluten-free pita bread to make the entire dish gluten-free.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of tzatziki?

You can use plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and dill as a quick alternative, or try hummus for a different flavor.

How do I keep the pita from tearing?

Warm the pita before assembling to make it more pliable. You can also double-layer the pita if needed.

What’s the best way to wrap a gyro?

Wrap it in parchment paper or foil to keep it together and make it easier to eat.

Are gyros healthy?

Yes, when made with lean protein, fresh veggies, and yogurt-based sauce, gyros can be a nutritious meal.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a perfect way to bring bold Mediterranean flavors to your table. With juicy marinated chicken, cool and creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings all wrapped in warm pita, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and versatile. Whether you’re hosting friends or prepping meals for the week, these gyros are sure to be a hit.