Name: Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt (full-fat or dairy-free alternative); 4 minced garlic cloves; Juice of 1½ lemons; 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 small cucumber, grated and drained; 4 pita breads; 1 tomato, thinly sliced; ½ onion, thinly sliced; Salt to taste

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, fluffy pita stuffed with tender, flavorful chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, and crisp veggies. This Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Whether you’ve experienced gyros on a sun-soaked Greek island or you’re trying them for the first time, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Greece.

Gyros are the ultimate comfort food – a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. I’ve always been fascinated by how simple ingredients come together to create such an explosion of taste. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making gyros at home all along!

Recipe Story: The Origins of Greek Chicken Gyros

Gyros, which means “turn” in Greek, refer to the traditional way of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie. While lamb and pork are common choices, Greek Chicken Gyros have gained popularity worldwide for their light yet satisfying flavor. This dish has been a staple in Greek street food culture for decades, loved for its portability and bold taste.

As a child, I remember watching vendors shave juicy slices of meat off spinning spits and wrap them in warm pita bread. The aroma of grilled meat mixed with the freshness of tzatziki sauce is unforgettable. While not all of us have access to a rotisserie, this recipe uses simple techniques to recreate that authentic flavor.

Greek gyros have also evolved over time, with variations popping up to suit local tastes. Today, chicken gyros are an excellent choice for anyone who prefers a lighter protein or wants a leaner option. They’re perfect for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or even weeknight dinners.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros

Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because of their tenderness and ability to soak up marinade flavors. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs yield a juicier result.
Greek yogurt: The base for the marinade and tzatziki sauce. Opt for full-fat yogurt for creaminess, or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. Minced garlic works best for the marinade and tzatziki.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and adds acidity to tenderize the chicken.
Olive oil: A staple in Greek cuisine, olive oil enhances the marinade and helps the chicken stay moist.
Dried oregano: One of the key herbs in Greek cooking, oregano gives the chicken its signature Mediterranean flavor.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber is essential for tzatziki sauce. Be sure to drain it well to prevent a watery sauce.
Pita bread: Soft and fluffy pita is the perfect vessel for wrapping your gyros. You can find these in most grocery stores or make them from scratch.
Tomatoes and onions: Fresh, thinly sliced tomatoes and onions add crunch and sweetness to balance the savory chicken.

If you can’t find fresh oregano, dried thyme can be substituted. For a gluten-free version, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps instead of pita. And if you’re in a pinch, naan bread makes a decent alternative to pita.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing the tzatziki sauce.
Grill pan or skillet: A heavy-duty grill pan works best for getting that charred, smoky flavor.
Microplane or grater: To grate garlic and cucumber for the sauce.
Kitchen tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken without tearing it.
Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken and vegetables.

If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular skillet will do the trick. For budget-friendly options, check out local thrift stores for high-quality kitchen tools at a fraction of the price.

Preparation Method: Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, mix 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, juice of 1 lemon, and a pinch of salt. Add 1½ pounds (680g) of chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Make the tzatziki sauce: Grate 1 small cucumber and squeeze out excess liquid with a paper towel or cheesecloth. In a bowl, combine the cucumber, 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, juice of half a lemon, and a pinch of salt. Chill until ready to serve.
Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Prepare the toppings: Thinly slice 1 tomato and half an onion. Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave to make it pliable.
Assemble the gyros: Place a warm pita on a flat surface. Spread a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, add chicken strips, and top with sliced tomatoes and onions. Fold the pita around the filling and wrap in parchment paper for easy handling.

Pro tip: If the chicken starts to stick to the pan, don’t panic! Let it cook for another minute – it will release naturally when it’s ready.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To nail the perfect Greek Chicken Gyros, here are some tips:

Don’t rush the marinade! The longer you let the chicken soak, the more flavorful it will be.
Always pat your cucumber dry before adding it to the tzatziki sauce – this prevents the sauce from getting watery.
Use medium-high heat to replicate the charred edges you’d get from a rotisserie.
Warm your pita bread for maximum pliability and flavor.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven while assembling the gyros.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. Here are some ideas:

Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas.
Low-carb option: Serve the chicken and toppings in lettuce wraps instead of pita.
Spicy twist: Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Personally, I love adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley to the toppings for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your gyros warm, straight off the skillet. Pair them with a side of Greek salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

To store, wrap leftover chicken tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container for the same duration. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you can expect per serving (approximately 1 gyro):

Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 18g

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while the yogurt provides probiotics for gut health. If you opt for whole-wheat pita, you’ll also get a boost of fiber. Just be mindful of the sodium if you’re watching your intake.

Conclusion

This Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, bold flavors. It’s easy to customize and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I personally love making these for summer BBQs – they’re always a crowd-pleaser!

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to share your variations – I’m always looking for new ideas. Happy cooking, and enjoy your taste of Greece!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can! Chicken breast works well, but it might be slightly less tender than thighs.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken and don’t move it too early – it will release naturally once it’s ready.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for both the marinade and tzatziki sauce.

What can I serve with gyros?

Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or even a side of hummus and pita chips pair wonderfully.

How do I keep the pita bread soft and warm?

Wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm it in a dry skillet over low heat.

Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe Easy Step-by-Step Guide