Greek Chicken Gyros

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a flavorful, savory, and satisfying dish, Greek Chicken Gyros are the perfect choice. Tender marinated chicken, paired with fresh vegetables, and wrapped in a warm pita, create a meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The Mediterranean-inspired seasonings bring out the bold flavors of the chicken, while the creamy tzatziki sauce ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these gyros are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 lemon, juiced and zested

• 4 pita bread pockets

• 1 cup diced tomatoes

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, toss to coat evenly, and cover. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

4. Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or oven for a few seconds until soft. Place a few slices of the cooked chicken in the center of each pita, then top with diced tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the gyros with fresh parsley, roll them up, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 30-35 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

• Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option, or even swap the chicken for lamb or beef for a more traditional gyro experience.

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian gyro, swap the chicken for falafel or grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or drizzle some hot sauce over the gyro before serving to give it a spicy kick.

• Tzatziki Variation: If you want to experiment, you can use mint instead of dill in the tzatziki sauce or add a touch of feta cheese for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tzatziki sauce can also be stored separately for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat the chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Pita can be reheated in the oven or on a skillet for 1-2 minutes to soften.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chicken gyros ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store the tzatziki sauce in the fridge. However, it’s best to assemble the gyros fresh to maintain the soft pita texture.

2. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind it may be a bit drier than thighs. You may want to marinate it longer or ensure it’s cooked properly to avoid dryness.

3. How do I make my tzatziki sauce extra creamy?

To make your tzatziki sauce extra creamy, use full-fat Greek yogurt and make sure to drain the cucumber well before adding it to the sauce.

4. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stove. Just make sure the skillet is hot and cook the chicken on medium-high heat to get a nice sear.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for about 3 days, and the tzatziki will last for up to 5 days.

6. Can I freeze the chicken for later?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken after it’s been sliced. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. How do I prevent the pita from getting soggy?

If you’re preparing the gyros in advance, keep the tzatziki sauce separate from the pita and add it just before serving. This will help prevent the pita from getting soggy.

8. What should I serve with these Greek Chicken Gyros?

You can serve them with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries for a more complete Mediterranean meal.

9. Can I make this recipe with lamb?

Yes! Lamb is traditionally used for gyros, and it would pair beautifully with the same marinade and tzatziki sauce. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the cut of lamb you use.

10. Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

While homemade tzatziki is recommended for the best flavor, you can certainly use store-bought tzatziki sauce as a shortcut if you’re in a hurry.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros offer a delicious and fresh way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors right at home. With a simple marinade, a creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is tasty. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these gyros are sure to become a favorite!