Greek Chicken Gyros

This authentic Greek chicken gyros recipe transports you straight to the Mediterranean with its bold flavors and aromatic spices. The combination of tender marinated chicken, fresh crisp vegetables, and cool tzatziki sauce wrapped in a warm pita creates a perfect balance that's both satisfying and refreshing. After learning this recipe during my travels through Greece, it has become my go-to dish when entertaining friends who always leave asking for the recipe.

I first made these gyros after returning from a trip to Santorini where I became obsessed with the street food vendors. Now my family requests these at least twice a month and everyone fights over the last bits of chicken.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Provide the juiciest results with more flavor than breast meat
• Dried oregano: Is authentic to Greek cuisine giving that signature Mediterranean profile
• Greek yogurt: Forms the base of tzatziki offering protein and creaminess
• Fresh cucumber: Adds essential crunch and cooling element to balance the spiced chicken
• Garlic: Intensifies both the marinade and tzatziki for depth of flavor
• Red onion: Provides a sharp contrast to the rich chicken
• Pita bread: Should be soft and pliable look for thicker Greek style versions if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine olive oil garlic oregano smoked paprika cumin salt and pepper in a large bowl until fully blended. Add chicken thighs and coat thoroughly then refrigerate for at least one hour or ideally overnight. This extended marinating time allows the acids and spices to penetrate the meat making it more tender and flavorful.

Grill the Chicken:

Preheat your grill or skillet to medium high heat. Remove chicken from marinade allowing excess to drip off. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until you achieve golden brown edges with slight charring and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing which allows juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.

Prepare the Tzatziki:

In a medium bowl mix Greek yogurt lemon juice and grated garlic with a pinch of salt. Squeeze all excess moisture from the grated cucumber this step is crucial to prevent watery sauce then fold into the yogurt mixture. Refrigerate until ready to serve allowing flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Gyros:

Warm pita breads either directly on the grill for 30 seconds per side or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Layer each pita with sliced chicken cucumber tomatoes red onion and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Add optional toppings like feta or fresh parsley if desired.

Save

The tzatziki sauce is truly the heart of this recipe. My grandmother taught me that the key is removing as much moisture as possible from the cucumber. She would grate it hours beforehand and press it between kitchen towels to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

Authentic Greek Variations

Traditional Greek gyros actually use a combination of lamb and beef formed into a large cone and roasted on a vertical rotisserie. While my chicken version is more accessible for home cooks it stays true to the flavor profile with the same authentic spice blend. In Greece you might also find gyros served with French fries stuffed right into the pita which adds a delightful contrast of textures. Feel free to experiment with this addition for an even more authentic experience.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization based on dietary needs or preferences. Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted chickpeas seasoned with the same spice mixture. For a lower carb option serve all the components over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce instead of in pita bread. The tzatziki sauce works beautifully as a salad dressing in this variation.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this meal into a complete Greek feast by serving alongside lemon roasted potatoes a simple Greek salad with plenty of feta and maybe some dolmades grape leaves stuffed with rice. For a casual gathering set up a gyro bar with all components laid out separately allowing guests to build their perfect sandwich. This interactive approach always creates a memorable dining experience and takes pressure off the host.

Save

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for gyros?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, though thighs typically yield juicier results. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily. Consider reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side and using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.

→ How far in advance can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for optimal flavor, marinating overnight (up to 24 hours) is recommended. The longer marination allows the herbs and spices to fully penetrate the meat. Just make sure to store the marinating chicken in the refrigerator in a covered container or sealed bag.

→ What's the best way to warm pita bread?

For authentic texture, warm pita bread directly over a gas flame for 20-30 seconds per side until slightly charred and puffy. Alternatively, wrap a stack of pitas in aluminum foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. For a quick method, lightly dampen each pita with water and microwave wrapped in a paper towel for 20-30 seconds.

→ Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki sauce actually improves when made ahead! Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and develop over time. Just give it a quick stir before serving as some liquid separation might occur.

→ How do I prevent tzatziki from becoming watery?

The key to non-watery tzatziki is properly draining the cucumber. After grating the cucumber, place it in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture. For extra insurance, you can also salt the grated cucumber and let it sit for 10 minutes before squeezing, which helps draw out additional water.

→ What sides pair well with chicken gyros?

Traditional accompaniments include Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes with oregano, or simple grilled vegetables. For a more casual spread, serve with crispy french fries (a common pairing in Greece) or pita chips with hummus. A light cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs also makes a refreshing side.