Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! Greek Chicken Gyros are here to bring authentic, bold flavors to your dinner table, without a lot of stress. Picture juicy, marinated chicken thighs wrapped in warm pita, topped with fresh veggies, and drizzled with creamy tzatziki or feta. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of Greece but needs a quick and easy solution for a busy day. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a dinner party, these gyros will impress and satisfy everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Gyros
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Quick & Easy: This dish comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
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Flavorful: The marinade is packed with Mediterranean spices, creating juicy, tender chicken that’s full of flavor.
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Customizable: Serve it with your favorite toppings, from fresh veggies to tzatziki sauce, and even crumbled feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean touch.
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Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of juicy chicken, warm pita, and delicious toppings.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Gyros
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Greek Chicken Gyros:
For the Chicken Marinade:
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Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for absorbing the marinade and staying juicy while cooking.
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Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the spices stick to the chicken.
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Honey Dijon mustard: A tangy-sweet addition that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
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Minced garlic: Adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the marinade.
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Lemon zest: Brightens up the dish and adds a zesty punch.
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Salt: To season the chicken, adjust to taste.
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Dry oregano: The signature herb of Greek cuisine that brings an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
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Water or stock: Helps create a sauce for the chicken as it bakes.
For the Gyros:
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Pita bread: Soft and warm, perfect for wrapping around your delicious filling.
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Toppings: Fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce.
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Tzatziki sauce: A creamy, tangy sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. (Optional, but a classic!)
For the Garnish:
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Feta cheese: Crumbled over the top for that creamy, salty flavor.
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Fresh parsley: Adds color and freshness to finish off the dish.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Marinade
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and oregano to make the marinade. The combination of tangy mustard, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon will make the chicken incredibly flavorful!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight if you have time for extra flavor). The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken will be.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken and Prepare to Cook
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble it for baking. If you have a vertical spit, you can thread the chicken onto it. If you don’t, you can use a baking sheet with a halved onion placed in the middle to keep the chicken upright. This will help retain the juiciness and create that perfect crispy exterior. Pour 1 cup of water or stock into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 75 to 90 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This step ensures the chicken is cooked through and full of flavor.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken and Assemble the Gyros
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips. Warm your pita bread in the oven for a few minutes. To assemble, place the sliced chicken in the pita, and add your favorite toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce, and top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.
Tips for Success with Greek Chicken Gyros
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Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor infusion.
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Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
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Rest the chicken before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender slices.
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Add extra veggies for more crunch and flavor, such as bell peppers, shredded lettuce, or olives.
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Make your own tzatziki sauce for an authentic homemade touch!
Equipment Needed for Greek Chicken Gyros
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Oven: Essential for baking your chicken to perfection.
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Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the marinade.
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Baking sheet: For catching the delicious juices while the chicken bakes.
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Vertical spit (optional): For threading the chicken, or you can use a halved onion to hold it upright.
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Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken thinly.
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Tongs or skewers: For turning the chicken while cooking.
Variations on Greek Chicken Gyros
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Chicken Breast Swap: Prefer a leaner meat? Swap chicken thighs for boneless skinless chicken breasts. They’re a great option but can dry out quicker, so be sure to watch the cooking time.
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Herb Infusions: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, throw in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for marinated portobello mushrooms, tofu, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
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Grain Bowls: Instead of pita, serve the sliced chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, topped with veggies and tzatziki for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Gyros
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Serve with pita bread for the full gyro experience, or try homemade flatbreads for a fresh alternative.
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Pair with a Greek salad topped with olives, feta, and a simple vinaigrette for a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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Offer tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.
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Try a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink to complement the meal.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or dill to add a beautiful, green finish.
FAQs about Greek Chicken Gyros
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Greek Chicken Gyros?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a juicy flavor, chicken breasts will work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quicker.
How do I store leftovers from Greek Chicken Gyros?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken moist.
What toppings should I use for my Greek Chicken Gyros?
Fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and lettuce are classic options. Tzatziki sauce is a must, and a sprinkle of feta cheese adds an extra Mediterranean touch.
Can I freeze Greek Chicken Gyros?
Yes! Slice the cooked chicken and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to two months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with my Greek Chicken Gyros?
Pair your gyros with a Greek salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or hummus and pita for a complete meal. A refreshing lemonade or iced tea makes for the perfect drink pairing.
Final Thoughts on Greek Chicken Gyros
Making Greek Chicken Gyros is more than just creating a meal—it’s about crafting an experience for your taste buds. The juicy, tender chicken, the warm pita, and the fresh toppings combine to make each bite a delight. These gyros are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering. Enjoy the flavors, share with loved ones, and celebrate the joy of cooking together!
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Greek Chicken Gyros
Description
These Greek Chicken Gyros are an easy, flavorful dinner option with marinated, juicy chicken thighs, warm pita, and fresh toppings. The delicious marinade, made with olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, and garlic, infuses the chicken with Greek-inspired flavors. Served with a tangy yogurt sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings the tastes of Greece right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, these chicken thighs are perfect for absorbing all the flavors from the marinade.
Olive Oil: Helps bind the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.
Honey Dijon Mustard: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor, creating a beautiful coating for the chicken.
Minced Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the marinade.
Lemon Zest: Fresh zest brightens up the dish and adds a citrusy zing.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Dry Oregano: A must-have Mediterranean spice that brings a classic Greek taste.
Water or Stock: For creating a flavorful sauce while baking the chicken.
Optional Ingredients:
Toppings: Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Pita Bread or Flatbread: To wrap up the chicken and toppings into delicious gyros.
Feta Cheese: Adds a salty, creamy element.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it ready for baking.
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and oregano. This mixture creates the base of the marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the marinade. Stir to coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results.
Prepare the Chicken for Baking: After marinating, skewer the chicken (if using a vertical spit, great!) or place the chicken on a halved onion on a baking sheet. This trick helps the chicken stay upright and juicy while baking. Pour 1 cup of water or stock into the base of the baking sheet to create steam and keep the chicken moist.
Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 75-90 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown. For the best results, you can cover the chicken with a piece of pierced foil to protect it from burning while allowing airflow.
Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Slice the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken thinly against the grain. This ensures every bite is juicy and tender.
Assemble the Gyros: Warm some pita bread or flatbread, and pile on the sliced chicken. Top with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce and a sprinkle of feta cheese if desired.
Notes
Tips for Success:
Marinate overnight for the most flavorful and tender chicken.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should be 165°F.
Rest the chicken after baking to keep it juicy and easy to slice.
Customize the toppings by adding or removing ingredients based on personal preferences.
Equipment Needed:
Oven: To bake the chicken to perfection.
Large Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken.
Skewers or Halved Onion: For holding the chicken during baking.
Baking Sheet: To catch all the delicious juices.
Sharp Knife: For slicing the cooked chicken.
Variations on Greek Chicken Gyros:
Chicken Breast Swap: Opt for chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a veggie version.
Greek Salad Bowl: Serve the gyros over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal.
Lettuce Wraps: Swap pita for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Gyros:
Pair with a Greek salad made with olives, cucumber, and feta.
Serve with crispy roasted potatoes or a side of grilled vegetables.
Complement with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
FAQs about Greek Chicken Gyros:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but make sure not to overcook them.
How do I store leftovers from Greek Chicken Gyros?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
What toppings should I use for my Greek Chicken Gyros?
Fresh toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and tzatziki sauce are traditional. Feta cheese also adds a nice touch.
Can I freeze Greek Chicken Gyros?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Slice the chicken and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when ready.
What can I serve with my Greek Chicken Gyros?
Serve with Greek salad, pita bread, roasted potatoes, or hummus for a complete meal.
