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Traditional gyro meat recipe 2025 08 16 130824 150x150

Greek Chicken Gyros

Enjoy juicy, garlicky, and tangy Greek chicken gyros wrapped in soft pita bread, loaded with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 2 lbs Chicken thighs Use thighs for juiciness.
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Full-fat is best.
  • 3 tbsp Lemon juice Fresh if possible.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced; the more, the merrier.
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil Don’t skimp.
  • 1 tbsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Dried thyme
  • 1 tsp Paprika A shake of paprika.
  • 1 tsp Salt Generous amount.
  • 1 tsp Black pepper To taste.

For Assembly

  • 4 pieces Pita bread Or thick flatbreads.
  • 1 cup Sliced onion
  • 1 cup Sliced tomato
  • 1 cup Lettuce
  • 1 cup Tzatziki Make your own or use store-bought.

Optional Additions

  • 2 cups Oven fries Toss in for an authentic touch.

Instructions
 

Marinade Preparation

  • In a big bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  • Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and ensure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour (overnight is best).

Cooking the Chicken

  • Heat a pan or grill until hot. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill without crowding them.
  • Cook until deeply charred on the outside and juicy on the inside, flipping once for even cooking.
  • Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Assembling the Gyros

  • Warm pitas over an open flame or in the oven to make them soft and smoky.
  • Spread tzatziki inside each warmed pita, add sliced chicken, onion, tomato, and lettuce. Optional: add fries.
  • Roll up the pita and serve street-food style.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least an hour for maximum flavor. Grilling pitas at the end enhances flavor. Quick pickled onions are a great addition.
Keyword Chicken Recipes, Greek chicken gyros, homemade gyros, Quick Meals, traditional gyros