Name: Grilled Chicken Gyros
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads or flatbreads; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/2 red onion, sliced; 1 cup chopped tomatoes; 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped; Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Grilled Chicken Gyros are a beloved Greek-inspired dish that combines succulent, marinated chicken with warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce. This handheld delight offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors—making it a satisfying and wholesome meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor with simple, fresh ingredients. The marinated chicken is juicy and full of Mediterranean spices, while the gyro toppings add a burst of texture and brightness. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals, backyard gatherings, or healthy meal prep. Plus, it’s highly customizable to fit your dietary preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Greek yogurt
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic cloves, minced
Dried oregano
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Warm pita bread or flatbread
Sliced cucumbers
Sliced red onions
Chopped tomatoes
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill)

directions

Prepare the marinade
• In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add chicken and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Grill the chicken
• Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 75 °C (165 °F).
• Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Assemble the gyros
• Warm pita bread slightly to make it pliable.
• Add sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and herbs.
• Spoon tzatziki sauce generously over the top.
Serve immediately
• Roll or fold the pita and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Makes 4 servings. Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes 1 hour marinating, 20 minutes active prep and cooking).

Variations

Low-carb option: Serve over lettuce or cauliflower rice instead of pita.
Spicy gyros: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
Vegetarian version: Use grilled halloumi or chickpeas instead of chicken.
Toppings swap: Include olives, feta cheese, or roasted red peppers.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave gently. Store toppings separately to maintain freshness. Pita can be stored at room temperature and reheated in a dry pan or wrapped in foil in the oven.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 200 °C (400 °F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

What type of yogurt should I use for the marinade?

Full-fat Greek yogurt works best for both texture and flavor.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely. Homemade is great, but quality store-bought tzatziki is a convenient alternative.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita bread or serve over salad or rice.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, store marinated chicken uncooked or cooked in the fridge and assemble gyros as needed.

What’s the best cut of chicken for gyros?

Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender, but breasts work if cooked carefully.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, freeze raw marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

What’s a good side dish for gyros?

Serve with Greek salad, lemon potatoes, or couscous.

Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop?

Yes, use a hot skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.

How long can I keep leftover tzatziki?

Homemade tzatziki lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Gyros bring the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your kitchen with minimal effort. Juicy, marinated chicken paired with fresh toppings and creamy tzatziki makes every bite satisfying and nourishing. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or shared at a gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleasing staple you’ll return to often.

Grilled Chicken Gyros

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Grilled Chicken Gyros are Greek-inspired wraps featuring juicy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all tucked into warm pita bread for a satisfying handheld meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Greek
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (75 °C/165 °F internal temperature).
Rest chicken 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Warm pita bread slightly. Fill with chicken, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and herbs. Spoon tzatziki over top.
Roll or fold and serve immediately.