Discover the ultimate Greek chicken gyros recipe and learn how to recreate the delicious flavors of an authentic Greek street food experience at home.
Succulent marinated chicken, warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki come together for a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with Mediterranean goodness.
Whether you’re searching for a simple chicken gyros recette or wondering about the true Greek chicken gyros authentic cooking method, this guide covers everything you need.
What Are Greek Chicken Gyros?
A traditional Greek chicken gyro features tender chicken marinated in a flavorful mixture of Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then cooked to perfection.
The chicken is typically wrapped in soft pita bread along with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and a generous dollop of homemade tzatziki sauce.
Although authentic Greek gyros are cooked on a vertical rotisserie, home versions achieve equally mouth-watering results with a simple grill or oven.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Gyros
Gather these fresh ingredients to make the best Greek chicken gyros at home:
For the Chicken Marinade:
-
700g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
-
3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
-
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
1 tablespoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon cumin
-
½ teaspoon paprika
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
-
Greek-style pita breads
-
Sliced tomatoes
-
Sliced red onions
-
Crisp lettuce leaves
-
Fresh tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros at Home
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
-
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
-
Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
-
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
-
Rest the chicken briefly, then slice into thin strips.
Step 3: Assemble the Gyros
-
Warm the pita breads until soft and pliable.
-
Spread a layer of tzatziki sauce over the pita.
-
Add chicken slices, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
-
Wrap up and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Gyros
-
Use Chicken Thighs: They stay juicier and are more flavorful than chicken breasts.
-
Marinate Overnight: Longer marination enhances the depth of flavor.
-
Warm the Pita: This prevents tearing and makes the wraps more authentic.
-
Fresh Toppings: Always use crisp vegetables and fresh tzatziki for the best taste.
For the perfect sauce, check our full guide on making Homemade Greek Tzatziki Sauce.
And to learn more about the history of gyros and their cultural significance, you can refer to this BBC Travel article on Greek Gyros.
FAQs about Greek Chicken Gyros
What is the Greek chicken gyros authentic cooking method?
The authentic method for preparing Greek chicken gyros involves slow-cooking marinated meat on a vertical rotisserie. For home cooking, grilling or oven-roasting provides excellent results while maintaining authentic flavors.
How do I translate chicken gyros into French?
In French, chicken gyros traduction is “gyros de poulet” or sometimes referred to as “sandwich grec au poulet”.
How to prepare an easy Greek chicken gyros recipe at home?
To make an easy Greek chicken gyros recipe, marinate chicken thighs in Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, then grill and wrap with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce.
Can I make chicken gyros with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, although thighs are recommended for juicier results, you can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust cooking time to prevent drying out.
What makes chicken gyros different from shawarma?
While both dishes feature marinated meat cooked on a rotisserie, Greek chicken gyros typically have lighter seasoning with herbs like oregano and use tzatziki sauce, whereas shawarma often uses bolder spices like cinnamon, allspice, and turmeric.