Greek Chicken Gyros: Authentic Street Food at Home

Introduction

Craving the bold, savory flavors of Greek street food? These Greek Chicken Gyros deliver tender, marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread—just like you’d find in a bustling Athenian taverna.

With a quick 30-minute marinade and simple assembly, this recipe brings Mediterranean vibes to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer grilling, or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Gyros

• Authentic flavors – Juicy chicken with garlic, lemon, and oregano.
• Quick & easy – Ready in under 45 minutes (marinate while you prep).
• Meal-prep friendly – Stores well for lunches or quick dinners.
• Customizable – Add fries (yes, really!) or swap veggies.
• Crowd-pleasing – Great for parties or family meals.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

• 4 pita breads (or flatbreads)
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Optional: French fries (traditional addition!)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Grill or pan-fry over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
2. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 3: Assemble the Gyros

1. Warm pitas slightly (optional).
2. Spread with tzatziki, then layer chicken, tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and parsley.
3. Add fries if using (trust us, it’s a Greek thing!).
4. Roll tightly and secure with foil or parchment paper.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, char the pitas on the grill or stovetop.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts?

A: Yes, but thighs stay juicier. Reduce cooking time for breasts.

Q: What’s the best tzatziki recipe?

A: Mix 1 cup Greek yogurt, ½ grated cucumber (drained), 1 garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp dill, and salt.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Keep components separate; assemble fresh. Chicken lasts 3-4 days refrigerated.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?

A: Use GF pitas or lettuce wraps.

Q: Is this spicy?

A: Mild—add red pepper flakes to the marinade for heat.

Tips for the Best Gyros

• Don’t skip the marinade – It tenderizes and flavors the chicken.
• Slice chicken thin – Authentic gyros are shaved, not chunky.
• Warm the pitas – Makes them pliable for rolling.
• Double the tzatziki – It’s great as a dip or salad dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking chicken – Thighs should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Soggy pitas – Assemble just before eating.
• Underseasoning – Taste the marinade before adding chicken.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Gyros bring the vibrant flavors of Athens to your table—juicy, garlicky chicken wrapped in soft pita with crisp veggies and cool tzatziki. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a Mediterranean feast, they’re a guaranteed hit.

Greek Chicken Gyros: Authentic Street Food at Home

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 35 mins

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Description

Savor the authentic flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Gyros recipe! Tender chicken marinated in a blend of spices, served with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

4 pita breads

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cucumber, grated and drained

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

In a separate bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to make the salad. Set aside.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked and browned, about 6-8 minutes.

Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven.

To assemble the gyros, spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita. Top with cooked chicken and the prepared salad.

Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of Greece!