Greek Chicken Gyros are a popular Mediterranean street food that bring together a flavorful, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy, cool sauce, all together in one delicious handheld meal. The chicken is marinated in a fragrant mixture of olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano, and other herbs, then grilled to perfection, creating a meal that’s satisfying and packed with authentic Greek flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, special gatherings, or meal prep, Greek Chicken Gyros offer a taste of Greece in every bite.
The History Of
Gyros have been a staple in Greek cuisine for decades, originating in the early 20th century. It is believed that gyros were inspired by the Turkish döner kebab, which is a dish made of spiced meat, often lamb or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie. In the 1920s, Greek immigrants in America began making their own versions, using pork and later chicken as alternatives. Over time, gyros became a beloved street food in Greece and around the world, with variations using lamb, beef, or chicken, often served with fresh vegetables, fries, and a variety of sauces. While gyros can be found globally, their combination of flavors and simplicity remains a hallmark of Greek street food culture. The use of tzatziki, a yogurt-based sauce, adds a cooling contrast to the spiced chicken, making the gyro both refreshing and flavorful.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs are recommended for juicier meat)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during cooking
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – imparts a savory, aromatic base flavor
- Juice of 1 lemon – gives a bright, tangy note that helps tenderize the chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – brings in an earthy, herby flavor typical in Greek cuisine
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – adds a warm, slightly smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon paprika – provides a mild, sweet heat
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – enhances the acidity and depth of the marinade
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – provides the thick, creamy base for the sauce
- ½ cucumber, grated – adds freshness and a slight crunch
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – imparts a classic, herbaceous flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – gives richness and a smooth texture
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the garlic flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning
For Serving:
- 4 pita bread rounds – for wrapping the chicken and toppings
- Sliced red onion – adds a sharp, crunchy texture
- Sliced tomatoes – for juiciness and freshness
- Sliced cucumber – to complement the tzatziki sauce
- Fresh parsley – for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, coating the meat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth. Set aside in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown and slightly charred.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita bread on the grill for about 30 seconds per side. Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Place the sliced chicken on each pita, and top with tzatziki sauce, red onion, tomato, cucumber, and fresh parsley.
- Serve: Fold the pita around the filling to create a wrap. Serve immediately while warm, with extra tzatziki sauce on the side if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Greek Chicken Gyros
To achieve the most tender and juicy chicken, marinate it for at least an hour, but ideally overnight, so the flavors have time to fully develop. Use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest result, but if you prefer chicken breasts, ensure they’re not overcooked to avoid dryness. When grilling the chicken, keep the grill at medium-high heat for a nice sear, but don’t cook the chicken too long as it can become tough. Fresh, thick Greek yogurt is key for a creamy tzatziki sauce—avoid using low-fat versions for the best texture and flavor. Adjust the garlic and lemon in the tzatziki sauce to your liking; some prefer a stronger garlic punch or a more pronounced lemony tang.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Gyros: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a satisfying meat-free option.
- Lamb Gyros: For a more traditional gyro, substitute the chicken with ground lamb or lamb cuts.
- Spicy Gyros: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the tzatziki sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled feta cheese to the gyros for an extra burst of creamy, salty flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pita bread or lettuce wraps for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Greek Chicken Gyros offer a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and fresh vegetables. The chicken thighs, while flavorful and juicy, contain more fat than breasts, but this can be adjusted based on personal dietary needs. Using whole wheat pita or swapping for a lettuce wrap can make the meal a bit lighter. Tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, provides probiotics for digestive health, along with protein. While this dish is relatively healthy, portion control is key as it can become calorie-dense if you opt for extra sauce or add-ons like cheese.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts work well, but make sure to not overcook them to avoid dryness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken the day before and prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time. The gyros should be assembled just before serving for the best texture.
Can I grill the chicken outdoors? Absolutely! If you have access to a grill, outdoor grilling will add a smoky flavor to the chicken.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce spicier? Yes, you can add extra garlic, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the tzatziki sauce for heat.
What else can I serve with Greek Chicken Gyros? Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or hummus are excellent side dishes that complement the gyros perfectly.
Greek Chicken Gyros
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for enhanced flavor).
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- To make the tzatziki sauce, mix grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
- Warm the pita bread, then layer it with the grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables. Roll up the pita and serve.