Our Favorite Chicken Gyros are a delicious and satisfying Greek-inspired dish packed with flavor. Tender, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served in warm pita bread with fresh toppings and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a wholesome and refreshing meal that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken gyros are incredibly flavorful, thanks to a simple yet bold marinade. They’re light yet filling, perfect for both lunch and dinner. Whether you grill the chicken outdoors or cook it indoors, the result is juicy, savory, and absolutely delicious. You’ll love how customizable they are with your favorite toppings, and they’re a great way to switch up your weekly dinner routine.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic (minced)
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper
Greek yogurt (for the marinade and/or optional extra sauce)
Pita bread or flatbread
Tzatziki sauce
Sliced cucumber
Sliced tomato
Sliced red onion
Fresh parsley or dill (optional garnish)

directions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably 3–4 hours.
Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 4–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
Warm the pita bread and spread a spoonful of tzatziki sauce in the center.
Add sliced chicken, tomato, cucumber, and onion.
Top with more tzatziki and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
Fold the pita and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1–4 hours
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (with marinating)

Variations

Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for extra juiciness.
Make it spicy with crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne in the marinade.
Add crumbled feta or olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
Serve gyro-style on a plate with rice or salad instead of in pita.
Try lamb, beef, or falafel as alternate proteins.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. For best results, reheat pita separately to keep it soft.

FAQs

Can I cook the chicken in the oven?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly browned.

Is it okay to use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely, store-bought tzatziki is a great time-saver. You can also make it from scratch if you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken and prep the toppings ahead. Just cook and assemble when ready to serve.

What’s the best type of pita to use?

Look for soft, pliable pita or flatbread. Greek-style pita without pockets is ideal for wrapping gyros.

Are chicken gyros healthy?

They can be! Lean protein, fresh veggies, and yogurt-based sauce make this a balanced and nutritious meal.

Can I grill the chicken outdoors?

Yes, outdoor grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Use medium-high heat and grill until nicely charred.

What can I use instead of pita?

Try wraps, naan, lettuce cups, or serve it as a rice bowl for a lower-carb version.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita or serve the chicken over salad or rice to make it gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. Season and reheat it in a pan with a bit of marinade for extra taste.

How do I stop the gyro from falling apart?

Don’t overfill the pita, and wrap it snugly in parchment or foil to help hold everything together.

Conclusion

Our Favorite Chicken Gyros are a flavorful, fun, and easy-to-make meal that brings a taste of Greece to your table. With juicy grilled chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings wrapped in soft pita, every bite is a burst of vibrant Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.

Our Favorite Chicken Gyros