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This chicken gyros recipe is a simple and flavorful way to bring Greek-inspired street food right to your kitchen table. Juicy marinated chicken cooks quickly in the air fryer while you prep tangy tzatziki and fresh veggies. Nothing beats these warm bundles in soft naan with pops of butter, herby flavor, and crunch from the veggies and fries.
My family goes wild for these when we do “fakeaway” nights at home. The first time I tried it with air-fryer chicken, my kitchen smelled like a Greek taverna and we could not stop eating.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs: The dark meat stays juicy and soaks up the flavors of marinade Try to pick fresh chicken for best results
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic gives deep flavor and aroma
- Lemon: Choose juicy lemons as the citrus adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken
- Olive oil: Good extra virgin oil adds richness to both marinade and seasoned butter
- Salt black pepper garlic powder smoked paprika: All for bold seasoning Pat the chicken dry to help spices stick
- Chilli flakes: Adds a gentle punch Use fresh for better flavor
- Butter: Use real butter and let it soften for easy mixing
- Chili powder: Optional but nice for just a touch of warmth
- Naan bread: Go for fluffy naan that folds but does not crack
- Tzatziki sauce: Greek yogurt-based for signature coolness Homemade or your favorite brand
- French fries: Crisp fries add an authentic street food texture
- Red onion tomato cucumber: Pick produce that is fresh and firm Dice evenly for great texture and color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces with garlic lemon juice olive oil salt black pepper garlic powder smoked paprika and chili flakes in a medium bowl. Toss everything together with your hands making sure each piece is glossy and well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least thirty minutes to really build juicy flavor
- Cook the Chicken:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden skewers You can use metal if you like Make sure not to pack them too tightly Preheat air fryer or oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius Arrange the skewers on the tray and cook for eighteen to twenty minutes Turn halfway so they cook evenly The outsides should be brown and the chicken cooked through
- Prepare the Seasoned Butter:
- In a separate bowl, mash together softened butter with lemon juice salt black pepper and chili powder if using Mix until totally smooth and fragrant Set aside at room temperature so it is spreadable
- Finish the Chicken:
- Take the hot chicken skewers out and immediately brush them generously with the prepared seasoned butter Let it melt over the chicken for extra tenderness and a glossy finish
- Warm the Naan:
- While chicken rests, heat naan bread in a dry skillet over medium or just toss into the warm air fryer for a minute or two. You want bread that is soft enough to wrap but with little golden spots
- Assemble the Gyros:
- Spread tzatziki sauce down the center of a warm naan Add a handful of hot fries Top with butter-basted chicken Red onion tomato and cucumber go next for crunch and freshness Fold up the naan and wrap in a bit of parchment for that classic street food feel
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your chicken gyros right away while still warm Relish that incredible tangle of flavors in every bite
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I always look forward to the moment I brush the hot chicken with seasoned butter. The aroma instantly fills the kitchen and everyone comes running. My kids love piling their own gyros and sometimes sneak extra fries inside for fun.
Storage Tips
If you have leftover chicken store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Naan and veggies are best kept apart so everything stays fresh. Tzatziki will keep for a few days when well covered. To reheat, warm chicken in the air fryer for just a few minutes to retain juiciness and finish with another brush of butter if you like.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken breast if you prefer but keep in mind thighs are more forgiving and stay moist. For a vegetarian version, marinated halloumi or tofu works well. In a pinch use store-bought flatbreads instead of naan but try to get the softest kind. If you do not have tzatziki plain Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon will work.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve the gyros with extra fries or a big Greek salad on the side. Sometimes I set out a toppings bar with olives crumbled feta or sliced jalapeños so everyone can build their perfect wrap. They also make a fantastic lunch the next day if you keep the elements separate and assemble fresh.
Cultural and Historical Context
The idea of gyros comes from the tradition of cooking meat on a rotating spit and serving it wrapped in bread with tangy sauces and vegetables. While this recipe isn’t fully traditional it captures the vibrant flavors and spirit of Greek street food in a home kitchen. Everyone can dig in with their hands and enjoy food that brings people together.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What protein works best for this dish?
Boneless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and ability to absorb marinade flavors, but boneless chicken breast also works if you prefer a leaner option.
- → Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes, you can use a conventional oven to bake the skewered chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- → How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and avoid overcooking. Basting with seasoned butter right after cooking also helps lock in moisture and flavor.
- → Is there a substitute for naan bread?
Pita bread is a great alternative, but you can also use flatbreads or wraps if naan is unavailable.
- → What vegetables work well in the wrap?
Classic options include diced tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber. Lettuce or shredded cabbage can also add a fresh crunch.