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Dinner / Greek Chicken Gyros: Authentic Recipe and Easy Instructions

Greek Chicken Gyros: Authentic Recipe and Easy Instructions

July 11, 2025 by BettyDinner

Greek Chicken Gyros: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, right from your very own kitchen! Imagine tender, marinated chicken, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, nestled in warm, pillowy pita bread, and drizzled with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. Is your mouth watering yet? This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience.

The history of the gyro stretches back centuries, evolving from the ancient practice of roasting meats on a vertical spit. While the modern gyro, as we know it, gained popularity in Greece in the 20th century, its roots are firmly planted in the rich culinary traditions of the region. It quickly became a beloved street food staple, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

What makes Greek Chicken Gyros so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The juicy, savory chicken, often marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, provides a delightful contrast to the soft, yielding pita bread. The refreshing tzatziki sauce, with its cool cucumber and tangy yogurt, adds a final layer of deliciousness that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack, gyros are always a fantastic choice. So, let’s get started and create some authentic Greek magic!

Greek Chicken Gyros this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken Marinade:
    • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
    • 1/4 cup olive oil
    • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Tzatziki Sauce:
    • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
    • 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Gyros Assembly:
    • 6-8 pita breads
    • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
    • 2 tomatoes, sliced
    • Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, fresh parsley

Preparing the Chicken Marinade:

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of our gyros – the flavorful chicken! The marinade is where all the magic happens, infusing the chicken with that authentic Greek taste. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for tender and delicious gyros.

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This is your flavor bomb!
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Use your hands to really get in there and make sure every piece is covered.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. I usually aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is my go-to.

Cooking the Chicken:

Now that our chicken has had a good soak in the marinade, it’s time to cook it up! There are a few ways you can do this, but I’m going to share my favorite methods for achieving that perfect, slightly charred, and juicy chicken.

  1. Grilling (My Preferred Method): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers (metal or wooden, if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning). Grill the chicken skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Grilling gives the chicken a wonderful smoky flavor that really elevates the gyros.
  2. Pan-Frying: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan). Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned on all sides. Again, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Pan-frying is a great option if you don’t have a grill or if the weather isn’t cooperating.
  3. Oven-Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Spread the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking is a hands-off method that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce:

No Greek gyro is complete without a generous dollop of creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce! This sauce is super easy to make and adds a wonderful coolness to the dish. It’s also great as a dip for veggies or pita bread.

  1. Grate the cucumber using a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the better it tastes! I usually make it an hour or two before serving.

Assembling the Gyros:

Alright, we’ve reached the final stage – assembling our delicious Greek chicken gyros! This is where all our hard work comes together. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

  1. Warm the pita breads. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave for a few seconds, or in the oven wrapped in foil. Warming the pita bread makes it more pliable and easier to fold.
  2. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita bread. Don’t be shy!
  3. Top with the sliced or shredded cooked chicken.
  4. Add sliced red onion and tomatoes.
  5. Optional: Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  6. Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up to create a gyro.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Greek chicken gyros!

Tips and Variations:

  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken marinade and tzatziki sauce ahead of time. The chicken can marinate overnight, and the tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance. This makes assembling the gyros a breeze when you’re ready to eat.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or a dash of hot sauce to the tzatziki sauce for a little extra heat.
  • Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to your gyros, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or lettuce.
  • Use different meats: While this recipe calls for chicken, you can also use lamb, beef, or pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or falafel for a vegetarian option.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pita bread or serve the chicken and toppings over a salad for a gluten-free meal.
  • Serving suggestions: Serve your gyros with a side of Greek salad, lemon potatoes, or rice pilaf for a complete meal.
Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Greek chicken gyros as much as I do! They’re perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Kali Orexi! (Bon appétit!)

Greek Chicken Gyros

Conclusion:

This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a passport to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, right from your own kitchen! The vibrant flavors, the tender chicken, and the creamy tzatziki all come together in a symphony of deliciousness that will have you craving it again and again. Trust me, once you’ve tasted the magic of homemade gyros, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and infinitely customizable. The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty, herbaceous taste that’s simply irresistible. Plus, you control every ingredient, ensuring a fresh and healthy meal for you and your loved ones. Forget complicated weeknight dinners; this recipe is a winner!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Let’s talk serving suggestions and variations. While traditionally served in warm pita bread with all the fixings, you can get creative.

Serving Suggestions:

* Gyro Bowls: For a lighter option, skip the pita and serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Add a generous dollop of tzatziki, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
* Greek Salad Topper: Transform your ordinary Greek salad into a hearty meal by adding slices of this flavorful chicken.
* Gyro Pizza: Yes, you read that right! Use the chicken as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza dough. Add feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired pizza night.
* Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill them for a fun and easy appetizer or main course. Serve with a side of tzatziki for dipping.

Variations:

* Spicy Gyros: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
* Lemon Herb Gyros: Increase the amount of lemon juice and herbs in the marinade for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.
* Vegetarian Gyros: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
* Lamb Gyros: While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily adapt it for lamb. Simply substitute the chicken with thinly sliced lamb shoulder or leg and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The key to truly mastering this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is to not be afraid to experiment and adjust the flavors to your liking. Don’t hesitate to add more garlic, lemon juice, or herbs to the marinade until it’s just right for you.

Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade gyros. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of gyro lovers and inspire each other with our culinary adventures. Happy cooking!


Greek Chicken Gyros: Authentic Recipe and Easy Instructions

Flavorful Greek Chicken Gyros with tender marinated chicken, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, and fresh toppings, all wrapped in warm pita bread.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Yield: 6-8 gyros
Save This Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 6-8 pita breads
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced
  • Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through (165°F/74°C).
    • Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through (165°F/74°C).
    • Oven-Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through (165°F/74°C).
  4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
  5. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess liquid. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita breads. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita. Top with sliced or shredded chicken, red onion, and tomatoes. Add optional toppings like feta, olives, and parsley. Fold or roll up the pita bread.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make Ahead: The chicken marinade and tzatziki sauce can be prepared ahead of time.
  • Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper to the marinade or hot sauce to the tzatziki.
  • Add Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, or lettuce can be added to the gyros.
  • Use Different Meats: Lamb, beef, or pork can be substituted for chicken.
  • Make it Vegetarian: Use grilled halloumi or falafel instead of chicken.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pita bread or serve over a salad.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with Greek salad, lemon potatoes, or rice pilaf.

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