Name: Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts); ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped; ¼ tsp salt; 4-6 pita breads; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup lettuce, chopped (optional); ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); Lemon wedges, for serving

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Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and easy-to-make meal featuring marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This classic Mediterranean dish is packed with bold flavors and makes for a perfect lunch or dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Mediterranean flavors – A perfect blend of Greek-inspired spices and fresh ingredients.
Easy to prepare – Simple marinating and grilling make this an effortless yet flavorful dish.
Healthy and nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and a light yogurt-based sauce.
Customizable – Adjust the toppings and spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

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

For the chicken marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Greek yogurt
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic, minced
- Dried oregano
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
For the gyros:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Roma tomatoes, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Cucumber, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh lettuce
For the tzatziki sauce:
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and drained
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Fresh dill or mint, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the marinade – In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the chicken – Coat the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for best flavor).
Cook the chicken – Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Make the tzatziki sauce – Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Assemble the gyros – Warm the pita bread, then layer with lettuce, sliced chicken, tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and feta cheese. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
Serve and enjoy! – Wrap the pita around the filling and enjoy your homemade Greek chicken gyros.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 24 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Grilled Vegetable Gyro – Swap chicken for grilled eggplant, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Dairy-Free Alternative – Use coconut yogurt in the marinade and tzatziki.
Different Proteins – Try lamb, beef, or even shrimp instead of chicken.
Low-Carb Option – Serve the gyro filling over a salad instead of in pita bread.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store tzatziki separately.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

FAQs

Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best type of pita bread for gyros?

Soft, fluffy Greek-style pita works best, but any flatbread will do.

Can I make gyros ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and tzatziki a day in advance for quick assembly.

How do I prevent my gyro from falling apart?

Don’t overfill the pita, and wrap it tightly in parchment paper or foil.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, but homemade has a fresher and richer flavor.

What’s a good side dish for gyros?

Try Greek salad, hummus with pita chips, or roasted potatoes.

Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or a regular skillet over medium-high heat.

How do I make the tzatziki thicker?

Drain the grated cucumber well or strain the yogurt for a thicker consistency.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita or serve the gyro filling in a lettuce wrap.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these gyros are sure to be a hit. Try them out and enjoy a fresh, homemade Greek feast!