The warm, robust flavors of Greek cuisine are unmatched. Among the myriad of dishes Greece offers, the Greek Chicken Gyro stands out as an irresistible favorite. Tender, marinated chicken wrapped in a pillowy flatbread, paired with the creamy, tangy freshness of tzatziki sauce, and topped with crisp veggies—is there anything better?
Whether you’re an experienced cook or an adventurous foodie trying your hand in the kitchen, this Greek Chicken Gyro recipe will become a meal you keep coming back to.
What Are Greek Gyros?
Greek gyros (pronounced “yee-ros”) are a popular street food served throughout Greece and beyond. They consist of meat, typically cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then thinly sliced and served in flatbread with fresh vegetables, sauces (like tzatziki), and seasonings. Traditionally made with pork or lamb, chicken gyros have captured the hearts of many for their lighter, juicier profile.
A Brief History of the Gyro
Gyros, derived from the Greek word meaning “turn,” have origins closely tied to the Middle Eastern Shawarma and the Turkish Döner Kebabs. The Greeks later infused this dish with their cultural flair, popularizing it globally. This rich history not only adds to the charm of gyros but also highlights their versatility and artistry.
Why This Recipe Shines
This recipe elevates traditional gyros with marinated chicken that is packed with citrusy, garlicky goodness and tzatziki sauce that feels like a refreshing breeze on your taste buds. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are simple, and in under 30 minutes of active prep time, you’ll enjoy a dish that tastes like it came straight from an authentic Greek taverna.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re feeling adventurous or need alternatives, consider these variations:
- Vegetarian Gyros: Replace the chicken with grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or portobello mushrooms.
- Different Meat Options: Swap chicken for pork, lamb, or beef strips if you have them on hand.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flatbreads or lettuce wraps for a light and gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Gyros are best served warm, wrapped tightly in soft pita bread to keep all the delicious flavors intact. Pair them with a side of crispy French fries or a light Greek salad for a complete meal. For an authentic experience, offer a selection of sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or spicy harissa for dipping. To complement the dish, consider serving a chilled glass of lemonade or a light white wine. Don’t forget to provide plenty of napkins, as gyros can be delightfully messy!
- Wrap gyros tightly in warm, soft pita bread to maintain the flavors and textures.
- Serve with a side of crispy French fries or a refreshing Greek salad.
- Include traditional sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or spicy harissa for dipping.
- Pair with a chilled beverage, such as lemonade, iced tea, or a light white wine.
- Provide plenty of napkins to manage the delicious messiness of gyros.
Tips and Tricks to Perfect the Meal
- Marinate the Protein: Allow the meat to marinate for at least a few hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance the flavors and ensure tender, juicy results.
- Warm the Flatbreads: Toast or lightly grill the flatbreads before serving to give them a soft, flavorful finish and a slight char for added texture.
- Homemade Tzatziki Sauce: Prepare the tzatziki fresh for the best taste, and don’t forget to drain the cucumber well to avoid a watery consistency.
- Slice Veggies Thinly: Thinly sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers ensure even bites and make the gyros easier to assemble and eat.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill, mint, or parsley can elevate the dish’s flavor, adding a fragrant, authentic touch.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading the gyros with too many ingredients to prevent the fillings from spilling out and to maintain balance in every bite.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional content of your homemade gyros will vary depending on the ingredients and quantities used. On average, a single serving of a chicken gyro with flatbread, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce contains approximately:
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
For a healthier option, opt for whole-grain flatbreads, lean meats, and extra veggies. Adjust portions of sauces and seasonings to meet your dietary preferences. Always consider specific product labels for the most accurate nutritional values.
Mistake to Avoid
One common mistake when preparing Greek Chicken Gyros is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and lose its tender, juicy texture, which is essential for a delicious gyro. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Properly cooked chicken will enhance the flavors of your dish and create the perfect bite every time.
Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Grill Pan or Skillet
- Box Grater
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into strips or cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
- salt to taste
For Assembly
- 4 pita or naan flatbreads warmed
- diced tomatoes
- chopped red onions
- fresh parsley or lettuce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Step 2: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6–8 minutes, until golden and fully cooked. Remove and let rest.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill or parsley, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 4: Warm the pita or naan. Layer with grilled chicken, tzatziki, diced tomatoes, red onions, and parsley or lettuce. Fold and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare Greek Chicken Gyros in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare several components of Greek Chicken Gyros ahead of time. Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor, and you can also make the tzatziki sauce the day before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and assemble the gyros fresh for the best taste.
Q: What other toppings can I use besides the traditional ones?
A: While traditional toppings include tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce, you can experiment with additional options like lettuce, cucumbers, olives, or feta cheese to customize your gyro to your taste.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Greek gyros can be made with different proteins like lamb, beef, pork, or even a vegetarian alternative such as falafel or grilled halloumi cheese. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times and marinades accordingly.
Q: What’s the best type of bread to use for gyros?
A: Traditional pita bread is the best option for gyros. Look for soft, fluffy pita that’s easy to fold and doesn’t tear easily. You can also warm it slightly before assembling your gyro to enhance the texture and flavor.
Bring Greece to Your Kitchen
With its explosion of flavors and easy-to-follow preparation steps, this Greek Chicken Gyro recipe with Tzatziki Sauce will add excitement to your dining table. Try this recipe out today, and don’t forget to share your creations!