Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Greek chicken gyros are a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring tender, marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh toppings and creamy tzatziki. Whether slow-roasted or grilled, this homemade version delivers the perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors. Ideal for a family meal or a casual gathering, these gyros bring the taste of Greece right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek Flavor – A perfect combination of tangy marinade and bold spices.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken – The yogurt-based marinade ensures soft and flavorful meat.
• Versatile Cooking Methods – Roast in the oven or grill for a smoky touch.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with minimal prep work.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Marinate ahead of time for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

• 4 pita breads (lightly toasted)
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• ½ cucumber (sliced)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken well and marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).
2. Stack & Roast: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Stack the marinated chicken onto a vertical skewer or oven-safe skewer setup. Roast for about 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with pan juices, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Slice & Assemble: Thinly slice the roasted chicken. Place on warm pita bread, add tzatziki, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Garnish with fresh parsley.
4. Serve & Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Chicken Gyros: Instead of roasting, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
• Spicy Gyros: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or marinated tofu.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over a Greek salad instead of in a pita.
• Extra Creamy Tzatziki: Mix in a little extra Greek yogurt and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked and sliced chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs provide a juicier and more flavorful result.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a pan over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.

What is the best way to serve gyros?

Serve with warm pita, tzatziki, and fresh toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative or omit it from the marinade.

What can I serve with chicken gyros?

They pair well with Greek salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes, or hummus.

How do I get the best char on the chicken?

Grill the chicken over high heat for a minute after roasting for extra crispiness.

What if I don’t have a vertical skewer setup?

Lay the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and roast, flipping halfway through.

Can I prepare this for meal prep?

Yes, marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook when ready to serve.

What is the best pita bread for gyros?

Soft, Greek-style pita is ideal, but any flatbread will work.

Conclusion

Greek chicken gyros are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that captures the flavors of Greece. Whether roasted or grilled, the marinated chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time. Served with fresh toppings and creamy tzatziki, these gyros make for a perfect lunch or dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade Mediterranean feast!