Greek Chicken Gyros
Herb-marinated chicken, homemade tzatziki, warm pita. Mediterranean street food at home.
Edited by Brian Kaplan·Last updated April 12, 2026
Servings
Est. total: $12.00 · $3.00/serving
Cost estimates are approximate and vary by location, store, season, and brand. Actual prices may differ.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 medium cucumber (grated and squeezed dry)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 4 pieces pita bread
- 2 medium roma tomatoes (diced)
- 1/2 medium red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 cup romaine lettuce (shredded)
Instructions
- 1
Combine 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, and salt. Toss with chicken thighs and marinate at least 15 minutes.
2 tbsp olive oil2 tbsp lemon juice3 cloves garlic2 tsp dried oregano1 tsp cumin1 tsp smoked paprika1 tsp salt1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs - 2
Make tzatziki: combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, remaining 1 tbsp lemon juice, remaining garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, and dill. Season with salt. Refrigerate until serving.
1 cup Greek yogurt1/2 medium cucumber1 tbsp lemon juice1 cloves garlic1 tbsp olive oil1 tbsp fresh dill - 3
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Don't overcrowd the pan — cook in batches for better char.
- 4
Warm pita bread in the same pan for 30 seconds per side. Assemble gyros: pita, lettuce, sliced chicken, tomatoes, red onion, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki.
4 pieces pita bread2 cup romaine lettuce2 medium roma tomatoes1/2 medium red onion
Pairs With
Crisp Greek white from Santorini
Mineral-driven acidity complements the lemon and herbs
Mythos or Fix Hellas
Light and refreshing, authentic regional pairing
Ouzo, fresh lemonade, mint
Anise and citrus echo the Mediterranean flavors
Make It Yours
Tap a dietary need to see exactly what to swap.
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Cooking Soundtrack
Easy-going rock, country, and the kind of music that pairs with burgers and cold beer.
Nutrition
Per serving. Estimated values. Not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
Tips
- •Squeeze all the water out of the grated cucumber or your tzatziki will be watery.
- •Marinate overnight for the most flavor, but even 15 minutes helps.
Substitutions
- chicken thighs → lamb shoulder for traditional gyro
- pita bread → naan or flatbread
- Greek yogurt → sour cream in a pinch
Leftovers
Store chicken and tzatziki separately for up to 3 days. Assemble fresh when serving.
Leftover Ideas
Nutrition values are estimates calculated per serving and may vary based on brand, preparation method, and serving size. Not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Consult a registered dietitian for specific nutritional needs.
Allergen Notice: Recipes may contain or come into contact with major allergens including milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and sesame. Always verify ingredient labels for allergen information specific to the brands you use.
Drink pairing suggestions are for adults of legal drinking age only. Please drink responsibly.
Food Safety: Follow USDA safe minimum internal temperatures: Poultry 165°F (74°C), Ground meats 165°F (74°C), Beef/pork/lamb steaks 145°F (63°C) with 3-min rest, Fish 145°F (63°C). Use an instant-read thermometer — do not rely on visual cues alone. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.