Few dishes capture the spirit of Greek street food quite like the chicken gyro. Juicy, flavorful chicken wrapped in a warm pita, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce, crisp vegetables, and a sprinkle of feta cheese — it’s a delicious combination that’s hard to resist. Whether you’ve strolled through the streets of Athens or just dream of a Mediterranean getaway, this Greek chicken gyro recipe brings that authentic flavor right into your kitchen.
What Are Gyros?
“Gyro” (pronounced yee-roh) comes from the Greek word meaning “turn,” referring to the traditional method of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie. While lamb is often used in Greece, chicken has become a popular, lighter alternative. In this homemade version, we’re marinating the chicken in classic Greek spices and herbs to recreate that deep, savory flavor.
Gyros are typically served in a warm pita bread, wrapped like a sandwich, and filled with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of tzatziki — a refreshing yogurt and cucumber sauce.
Let’s dive into how to make the perfect Greek chicken gyros from scratch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (helps tenderize the chicken)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint)
- Salt to taste
Additional Toppings:
- Sliced red onion
- Chopped tomato
- Shredded lettuce
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, yogurt, vinegar, and spices. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4-6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and stir until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
3. Cook the Chicken
You can cook the chicken in a skillet, on a grill pan, or outside on a BBQ. Heat your cooking surface over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through — about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.
4. Warm the Pitas
Warm your pita breads in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
5. Assemble the Gyros
Lay a warm pita on a plate. Add a few slices of chicken, followed by a spoonful of tzatziki, then top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta. You can wrap it up like a sandwich or serve it open-faced.
Optional: Add a few fries inside the wrap for an authentic Greek twist!
Tips for the Best Gyros
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts, especially when grilled or pan-seared.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Overnight is ideal.
- Make tzatziki ahead — it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Customize toppings to your preference. Add cucumbers, olives, or hot sauce for a personal touch.
- Pita matters — look for soft, fluffy pitas that can fold easily without breaking.
Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Gyros
Not only are gyros packed with bold and fresh Mediterranean flavors, but they’re also a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and healthy fats. The tangy tzatziki cools down the spices in the chicken, and the fresh vegetables add a perfect crunch.
They’re also great for meal prep — marinate the chicken ahead of time, make a big batch of tzatziki, and you can have quick gyros ready for lunch or dinner all week long.
A Mediterranean Delight in Minutes
Greek chicken gyros are proof that you don’t need a passport to enjoy the rich, savory flavors of the Mediterranean. With just a few simple ingredients and some love, you can bring a bit of Greece to your kitchen table.
Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or even make-your-own-gyro parties, this dish is versatile, delicious, and sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, well-stuffed gyro. It’s the kind of food that wraps you in flavor, fills your belly, and leaves you satisfied. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a longtime fan, these chicken gyros are a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring the joy of homemade Greek street food into your home tonight.