Chicken Gyros are a mouthwatering Greek classic that combines tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection with fresh, vibrant toppings wrapped in warm, soft pita bread. Bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors like garlic, oregano, and lemon, these gyros deliver juicy, flavorful bites that transport you straight to the streets of Greece. Easy to make at home, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gyros
Flavor-packed marinade: A zesty blend of herbs, garlic, and citrus that tenderizes and infuses the chicken.
Juicy grilled chicken: Cooked just right for smoky, succulent pieces in every bite.
Fresh toppings: Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, onions, and tangy tzatziki add texture and brightness.
Authentic experience: Warm pita wraps bring it all together for that traditional gyro feel.
Simple and quick: Easy to prepare with common ingredients and minimal fuss.
Versatile: Great for dinner, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, sauces, or spices to suit your taste.
Discover the secret to flavorful grilling with this Chicken Gyros recipe — a deliciously authentic taste of Greece made simple!
Ingredients for Chicken Gyros
Savory, herby chicken grilled to juicy perfection and ready for your favorite gyro fixings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re lean, easy to grill, and soak up flavors beautifully.
Olive oil: This adds richness and helps the spices stick to the chicken. Plus, it’s a staple in Mediterranean cooking.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that brings a fragrant, earthy flavor to the marinade.
Garlic powder: For that punch of flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic. It blends seamlessly into the marinade.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
Paprika: This spice gives a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and tenderizes the chicken.
Pita breads: The perfect vessel for your gyros, soft and warm, ready to hold all those delicious fillings.
Plain Greek yogurt: This creamy base is key for the tzatziki sauce, adding a refreshing tang.
Fresh dill: A fragrant herb that elevates the tzatziki, giving it a fresh, vibrant taste. Dried dill works too!
Garlic: Minced for the tzatziki, it adds a fresh kick that complements the yogurt.
Cucumber: Diced for crunch and freshness in the tzatziki, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Tomato: Diced for a juicy, sweet topping that adds color and flavor.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and crunch in your gyros.
Optional ingredients: Feel free to add toppings like feta cheese, olives, or even spicy peppers for an extra kick!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Gyros
Creating chicken gyros at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to grilling up a delicious Mediterranean feast. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a large bowl. This marinade is where the magic happens! It infuses the chicken with flavor. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up those tasty flavors, it’s time to preheat your grill or grill pan. Set it to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for getting those beautiful grill marks and juicy chicken. If you’re using a grill pan, a little olive oil can help prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat. After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken rests, whip up the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, chopped dill, minced garlic, and diced cucumber. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is the perfect cool complement to the warm, grilled chicken. Set it aside while you slice the chicken.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken
After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips. This makes it easier to fit into the pita and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. The aroma will have your mouth watering, and you’ll be ready to assemble your gyros!
Step 6: Assemble the Gyros
Now comes the fun part! Warm the pita breads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side. This makes them soft and pliable. Place a generous amount of sliced chicken on each pita, then top with tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and any other toppings you love. Roll up the pita around the filling, and your chicken gyros are ready to serve!
Tips for Success
Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours is ideal.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F.
Warm the pita on the grill for a few seconds to enhance its texture.
Experiment with toppings like feta or olives for a unique twist.
Don’t skip the resting time after grilling; it keeps the chicken juicy!
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A traditional grill works best, but a grill pan on the stovetop is a great alternative.
Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the tzatziki sauce.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the chicken and prepping veggies.
Spatula or Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken on the grill.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a delicious meat-free gyro.
Lamb Gyros: For a richer flavor, use marinated lamb instead of chicken. The spices pair beautifully with lamb’s natural taste.
Spicy Chicken Gyros: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
Gluten-Free Pita: Use gluten-free pita bread to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Herbed Tzatziki: Experiment with different herbs like mint or parsley in your tzatziki for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh Greek salad or crispy roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Drinks: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Serve gyros on a wooden board with colorful toppings arranged neatly for a rustic touch.
FAQs about Chicken Gyros
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for gyros?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to your gyros. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How do I store leftover chicken gyros?
Store any leftover chicken gyros in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy fresh pita and toppings.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to grill. This can save you time on busy days!
What toppings do you recommend for chicken gyros?
Some great toppings include diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and olives. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an extra burst of flavor!
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken gyros is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a delightful experience. The sizzle of the chicken on the grill, the vibrant colors of fresh toppings, and the creamy tzatziki sauce all come together to form a dish that’s both satisfying and fun to make. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or hosting friends for a backyard barbecue, these gyros are sure to impress. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the joy of sharing delicious food that transports you straight to the Mediterranean!
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
While the chicken is resting, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, dill, minced garlic, and diced cucumber. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips. Warm the pita breads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side.
To assemble the gyros, place a generous amount of sliced chicken on each pita. Top with tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and any additional toppings you prefer.
Roll up the pita around the filling and serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or lamb for a different flavor profile.
