Name: Chicken Gyros
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 pita breads or flatbreads; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup chopped tomatoes; 1 cup shredded lettuce or cucumber slices; 1 cup tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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Chicken Gyros are a mouthwatering, Mediterranean-inspired dish made with juicy, marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce. I love making this recipe at home because it captures all the bold, tangy, and savory flavors of Greek street food with minimal effort. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how flavorful and satisfying these gyros are without being too heavy. The yogurt-based marinade keeps the chicken tender and full of flavor, while the toppings add a fresh crunch. It’s also super versatile—I can serve the chicken in pita wraps, on a salad, or even as a rice bowl. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option that still tastes amazing the next day. Chicken Gyros

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Plain Greek yogurt
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic cloves, minced
Red wine vinegar
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Pita bread or flatbread
Sliced red onion
Chopped tomatoes
Shredded lettuce or cucumber slices
Tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Directions

I start by whisking together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
I add the chicken and toss to coat it fully in the marinade. I cover and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor.
When ready to cook, I preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
I cook the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.
I let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
I warm the pita bread and layer it with sliced chicken, red onion, tomatoes, lettuce or cucumber, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki.
I wrap it up and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken with lamb or beef for a different twist on the classic gyro.
For a spicy kick, I add a little cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
Instead of pita, I occasionally serve the chicken over rice or quinoa for a gyro bowl.
I like topping it with feta cheese or olives for extra Mediterranean flair.

storage/reheating

I store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. I keep the toppings and pita separate until ready to serve to prevent them from getting soggy. The tzatziki also stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Chicken Gyros

FAQs

Can I grill the chicken instead of using a pan?

Yes, I often grill the chicken outdoors or on a grill pan for that extra smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely. While I love making my own tzatziki, store-bought versions are convenient and work great in a pinch.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

I prefer chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts also work well if I marinate them long enough.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often marinate the chicken the night before and cook it when I’m ready. The assembled gyros are best fresh, but the components store well for easy meal prep.

How do I keep the pita from tearing?

I warm the pita slightly before using it, which makes it more pliable and less likely to tear when wrapping the gyro.

Conclusion

Chicken Gyros are a flavorful, fun, and fresh meal that I love making any time I’m craving something savory and satisfying. The juicy marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and crisp veggies wrapped in soft pita make every bite irresistible. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that never disappoints.