Greek Chicken Gyros are a tasty and simple way to enjoy the flavors of Greece right at home. Juicy, marinated chicken cooked just right, wrapped up in soft pita bread, with fresh veggies and a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s all about that combo of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and crunchy cucumber and tomato that makes every bite so satisfying.
I love making these when I want something quick but a little special. The marinade with garlic, lemon, and oregano really brings the chicken to life, and I always make extra tzatziki because it’s just that good. It’s one of those meals that feels fresh and bright but also filling enough to keep you happy for hours.
My favorite way to eat a gyro is to pile on the toppings — lots of onions, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki — then fold it up tight and enjoy without worrying about making a mess. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or a fun family dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in fresh veggies and get everyone smiling around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but breasts work if you want leaner meat. Either way, marinate well for tender, tasty bites.
Greek Yogurt: Essential for tzatziki sauce. If you prefer dairy-free, try coconut or almond yogurt, but flavor will differ slightly.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch and coolness in tzatziki and toppings. English cucumbers are less bitter, or peel regular cucumber before use.
Pita Bread: Soft pita is perfect for wrapping. If unavailable, use flatbread or naan for a fun twist.
Herbs & Spices: Oregano and dill bring Greek flavors. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried versions work well; just use less for potency.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and Full of Flavor?
Marinating is the key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken completely and refrigerate for at least an hour—overnight is best.
- The acidity in lemon and the spices tenderize the chicken and give great flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice char while keeping it juicy inside.
Rest the cooked chicken before slicing to keep it moist and let flavors settle.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend it because it gives the chicken those nice char marks and smoky flavor.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for marinating the chicken and preparing the tzatziki sauce.
- Grater – makes quick work of shredding the cucumber for the sauce.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – for turning the chicken and handling hot ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – handy for chopping vegetables and herbs.
- pita or flatbread – essential for assembling the gyros; you can warm these in the oven or on a skillet.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, or swap with turkey or beef for a different taste.
- Swap tzatziki for hummus or a garlic yogurt sauce if you want a different dip.
- Add sliced roasted peppers or olives for more Mediterranean flair.
- Spice up the chicken marinade with a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of chili powder for a little heat.
- Include feta cheese crumbles inside the gyro for a salty, creamy boost.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Gyro Fillings:
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, diced
- ½ cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced and optionally pickled
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Paprika or sumac for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (longer if possible for extra flavor). Cooking the chicken and assembling the gyros will take another 15 minutes. Plan for about 1.5 hours total to enjoy these delicious gyros.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chicken Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add your chicken pieces into the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for best taste and tender texture.
3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
Grate the cucumber and gently squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Combine the grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
5. Warm the Pita Bread:
Lightly warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill or in a dry pan until soft and flexible. This makes them easier to fold and wrap your fillings.
6. Assemble Your Gyros:
Start by layering shredded lettuce on each warm pita. Add diced cucumber and tomatoes, then top with sliced chicken and red onion. Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over everything. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a little paprika or sumac if you like a pop of color and extra flavor.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Fold or roll the pita to hold the fillings tightly. Serve your Greek Chicken Gyros immediately, paired with crispy fries or lemon wedges if you like. Dive in and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. This will help the marinade absorb better and ensure even cooking.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Tzatziki actually tastes better when it has chilled for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftover Gyro Ingredients?
Store cooked chicken, tzatziki, and chopped veggies separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Chicken is best eaten within 3-4 days, and tzatziki should be consumed within 2-3 days for freshness.
Can I Substitute Pita Bread with Something Else?
Yes, you can use flatbread, naan, or even a wrap as alternatives. Just warm them up before assembling your gyro for the best texture and flexibility.
