Greek Chicken Gyro Recipe – Food Dolls

These Chicken Gyros bring the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. Juicy, spiced chicken pairs perfectly with anything from fresh veggies to creamy sauces for a meal that’s vibrant and satisfying!

What are Chicken Gyros?

Chicken gyros are a classic Greek street food featuring tender, marinated chicken often served with pita bread and fresh toppings. The chicken is typically seasoned with a mix of herbs and spices, giving it a savory, aromatic flavor that’s balanced by tangy yogurt or tzatziki sauce. This combination creates a meal that’s both comforting and full of bold, layered flavors.

This dish is all about satisfying, flavorful chicken that’s effortless to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, casual lunch, or feeding a hungry crowd, these gyros deliver tender, juicy meat that’s full of personality and keeps everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You Need

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Thighs are juicy and forgiving, making them ideal for marinating. You can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Olive Oil – Olive oil helps the chicken stay moist during cooking and adds richness. 
• Lemon Juice – Lemon juice brightens the marinade and adds a refreshing tang. Fresh-squeezed juice makes a noticeable difference.
• Garlic Cloves – Mince the garlic yourself for the most fragrant, punchy flavor. Garlic brings warmth and a subtle earthiness to the chicken.
• Yogurt – Yogurt tenderizes the chicken while adding creaminess to the marinade. It also helps the spices stick to the meat.
• Dried Oregano – Oregano gives a slightly earthy, herby note that’s signature to Greek-style dishes. 
• Smoked Paprika – Smoked paprika adds depth and a mild smokiness to the chicken. It’s a simple way to enhance the savory flavor!
• Ground Cumin – Cumin provides a warm, aromatic undertone that rounds out the other spices. We like it for the subtle complexity it adds.
• Salt – Salt enhances all the flavors in the marinade. Use it to taste and balance the seasoning.
• Black Pepper – Black pepper adds a hint of spice and depth. Freshly ground gives the best punch.

How to Make Chicken Gyros

1. Create the marinade. Combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth and aromatic.
2. Marinate the chicken. Coat the chicken evenly in the marinade and cover the bowl. Refrigerate for at least an hour, but letting it sit overnight intensifies the flavor.
3. Prepare for roasting. Thread the chicken onto skewers, arranging the pieces tightly together. Set up a deep baking dish so the ends of the skewers rest on the rim and the chicken does not touch the bottom. If you prefer, you can use a vertical spit instead of skewers and roast the chicken upright in the dish. 
4. Cook the chicken. Roast until the meat is cooked through and golden on the outside. If you prefer, remove the foil partway through cooking to develop a lightly crisped exterior.
5. Slice and serve. Use a sharp knife to shave thin slices from the chicken skewers. Serve on warm pita or naan with fresh vegetables, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a drizzle of tzatziki or yogurt sauce. Or, serve the meat over a salad or alongside roasted veggies.

Variations

• Spices – Include crushed red pepper or cayenne in the marinade for a little extra heat that brightens the flavors.
• Vegetarian – Try marinated grilled tofu or chickpeas as a protein-packed, meat-free alternative that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
• Sauce – Swap a topping of yogurt sauce or tzatziki for toum, hummus, or tahini sauce to mix up the flavor profile.
• Herbs – Add fresh dill, mint, or parsley to the marinade or sauce for a bright, herbaceous lift.
• Toppings – Add roasted red peppers, olives, or caramelized onions to bring extra flavor.
• Low Carb – Serve the chicken without bread, wrapped in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb gyro.
• Smokiness – Grill the chicken instead of roasting for a lightly charred, smoky finish.

Can I Store Leftovers?

Leftover chicken gyros are perfect for meal prep! Make them once and enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freeze the chicken for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store it in individual portions for easy reheating in the oven or microwave.

Common Questions about Chicken Gyros

More Chicken Recipes

We love chicken’s versatility and how easy it is to jazz it up! Check out more of our popular poultry recipes: 

Mediterranean Chicken (3 Ways)

Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes

Creamy Parmesan Chicken

Cheesy Chicken Tacos