Name: Irresistible Greek Chicken Gyros
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cucumber, grated; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 4 pieces pita bread; 1 cup chopped lettuce; 1 cup sliced tomatoes; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

There’s something so satisfying about biting into a warm, pillowy pita stuffed with juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of creamy tzatziki sauce. I’ve always had a soft spot for Greek flavors—the balance of tangy, herby, and savory notes creates the kind of meal that hits every craving. That’s exactly why I can’t get enough of these Greek Chicken Gyros. They’re packed with flavor, easy to prep, and perfect whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea.

This gyro recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. I love how customizable it is—add more garlic if you’re bold, swap in grilled veggies if you’re keeping it plant-based, or even throw in a bit of feta for a creamy, salty punch. Once you marinate the chicken in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, the rest comes together effortlessly. The result? A handheld meal that transports you to the Mediterranean with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Gyros

It’s a flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly.
Perfect for meal prep or serving a group.
Fresh and healthy ingredients keep it light yet satisfying.
Customizable with sauces, toppings, and sides.
Great balance of protein, veggies, and carbs.

What Kind of Pita Bread Should I Use?

I always go for soft, pocketless pita or naan-style flatbread when making gyros. It wraps around the filling nicely without tearing and holds up to the juiciness of the chicken and sauces. If you prefer a more traditional gyro experience, look for Greek pita, which is slightly thicker and fluffier. Warm it slightly before assembling to make it more pliable.

Options for Substitutions

Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work well for a leaner version.
Greek Yogurt Marinade Alternative: If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt works as a tangy base.
Tzatziki Sauce: Swap with hummus or a tahini-garlic sauce for a twist.
Veggie Add-ins: Add grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Pita Substitute: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas for a lighter option.

Ingredients for This Greek Chicken Gyros

Chicken Breast or Thighs – The star of the dish. Use boneless, skinless chicken for easy marinating and grilling. Thighs offer more moisture and flavor, but breasts are a leaner option.
Greek Yogurt – Essential for the marinade, helping tenderize the chicken while infusing it with a tangy flavor. It also forms the base of the tzatziki sauce.
Garlic – Adds pungency and depth to both the marinade and the sauce.
Olive Oil – A staple in Greek cuisine, it enriches the marinade and ensures the chicken cooks beautifully.
Lemon Juice – Brings brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the chicken and yogurt.
Oregano and Thyme – Classic Mediterranean herbs that infuse the marinade with earthy flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance every layer.
Cucumber – Grated for the tzatziki, it gives the sauce its refreshing crunch.
Fresh Dill – A must in tzatziki; it brings a cooling, herbal touch.
Pita Bread – Acts as the vehicle for all the delicious fillings.
Tomatoes, Red Onion, Lettuce – Fresh toppings that add texture and color.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for the best flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a towel or cheesecloth. In a bowl, mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Chill in the fridge until ready to use.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and grill each piece for 5–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked with nice charred edges. Let it rest, then slice into strips.

Step 4: Warm the Pita Bread

Wrap the pita in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, heat each pita briefly in a dry skillet or directly over the flame for a bit of char.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

Lay the warmed pita flat, layer with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion, and grilled chicken. Top with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. Wrap tightly or serve open-faced. Enjoy immediately!

How Long to Prepare the Greek Chicken Gyros

Preparation Time: Most of the work is done during marination. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least an hour, but if you can plan ahead, leaving it overnight yields maximum flavor. The prep for the vegetables and tzatziki can be done during this time, making the process efficient and smooth.

Cooking Time: Grilling the chicken takes about 10–14 minutes depending on the thickness of the pieces. Pita warming and gyro assembly can be done in under 10 minutes, so the full hands-on time is just around 30 minutes after marination.

Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Gyros

Pat the cucumber dry for the best tzatziki texture—too much moisture makes it watery.
Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to boost the sauce’s flavor.
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper, richer flavor.
Slice the chicken against the grain for tender, easy-to-bite pieces.
Lightly toast or warm the pita before assembling to prevent tearing and enhance texture.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Marination Time: Rushing this step will result in less flavorful chicken.
Overcooking the Chicken: It dries out quickly, especially if using breasts. Keep an eye on the grill.
Using Wet Cucumber: Failing to drain grated cucumber ruins the texture of tzatziki.
Not Resting the Chicken: Letting it sit for 5 minutes before slicing keeps juices locked in.
Overloading the Pita: It’s tempting, but overstuffing makes it hard to fold and eat.

What to Serve With Greek Chicken Gyros?

1. Greek Lemon Potatoes

Roasted in olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano, these crispy-edged potatoes are a hearty and delicious side.

2. Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A bright and colorful side dish with chopped veggies, feta, and a lemon vinaigrette.

3. Hummus and Pita Chips

A creamy dip and crunchy chip combo that complements the gyro perfectly.

4. Greek Village Salad (Horiatiki)

Tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta with olive oil and oregano—fresh and classic.

5. Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

Flaky, cheesy, and savory. A traditional Greek pastry that rounds out the meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Tzatziki can be refrigerated separately for 3–4 days. Keep the veggies fresh by storing them dry and covered. Pita bread stays best wrapped tightly and reheated before use.

Freezing: The marinated (but uncooked) chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cooked chicken can also be frozen, though it’s best consumed fresh. Do not freeze tzatziki—it will separate.

Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Gyro)

Calories: 420–480 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 580mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally overnight, but even 1 hour will infuse it with a good amount of flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond-based yogurt for the marinade and sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Is this meal good for meal prep?

It’s great! Store components separately and assemble fresh for best texture.

What’s the best way to reheat pita bread?

Wrap in foil and warm in the oven or microwave briefly with a damp paper towel to keep it soft.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros are a mouthwatering, wholesome meal that combines savory, marinated chicken with crisp vegetables and cool, creamy tzatziki. Whether you’re planning a simple lunch, a family dinner, or a Mediterranean-themed gathering, this dish delivers every time. With easy prep, customizable ingredients, and irresistible flavor, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.