Chicken Gyros Recipe: Authentic & Easy From Scratch Meal

A delicious and flavorful Chicken Gyros meal brings the vibrant taste of Greek cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe showcases tender marinated chicken thighs, complemented by fresh, crunchy veggies, and wrapped in warm, soft flatbreads. The homemade tzatziki sauce with creamy yogurt, refreshing cucumber, and zesty garlic offers the perfect balance of flavor to make your gyros extraordinary. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a fun dinner for the family, or want to impress your guests with an authentic Greek dish, this Chicken Gyros recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. The beauty of this meal lies in its fresh ingredients and the satisfying combination of textures—from the crispy chicken to the creamy tzatziki and crunchy vegetables.

By preparing everything from scratch, you’re able to control the flavors and textures, making each bite exactly how you like it. Whether you stick to the traditional approach or customize it to suit your tastes, this Chicken Gyros recipe will bring the bold, vibrant flavors of Greece straight to your plate. Best of all, it’s simple and easy to make at home with just a few key ingredients and minimal preparation.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Gyros

1. Authentic Flavor

The marinated chicken thighs, with a perfect blend of oregano, garlic, and lemon, bring an authentic Greek flavor to the dish that’s hard to beat.

2. Customizable

You can make the gyros as light or hearty as you prefer by adjusting the amount of toppings and fillings, allowing for a personalized twist on the recipe.

3. Easy to Make

Despite using fresh, homemade ingredients like tzatziki and flatbreads, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.

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4. Healthy and Fresh

With plenty of fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and the option to make it gluten-free or dairy-free, this meal offers a healthier alternative to traditional fast food.

5. Perfect for Any Meal

This recipe works for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend gathering, offering a versatile and fun way to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Dried oregano
• Red wine vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Crushed garlic clove
• Sea salt and black pepper
• Skinless, boneless chicken thighs

For the Flatbreads:

• Strong white bread flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version)
• Sea salt
• Warm water
• Extra virgin olive oil

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• English cucumber (grated)
• Natural yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
• Garlic granules
• Fresh dill
• Sea salt
• Fresh lemon juice

For the Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Cherry tomatoes (roughly chopped)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, or use falafel for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the flatbreads, ensuring the entire dish is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the yogurt in the tzatziki with a plant-based yogurt alternative (such as coconut or almond yogurt) for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Chicken Gyros

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, crushed garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Flatbreads

In a large bowl, mix the strong white bread flour (or gluten-free flour blend) with a pinch of sea salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into flat circles. Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat and cook the flatbreads for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and slightly charred.

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, natural yogurt, garlic granules, finely chopped fresh dill, sea salt, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy, then adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

Step 5: Assemble the Gyros

Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into thin strips. To assemble each gyro, place a warm flatbread on a plate, add a generous scoop of tzatziki sauce, then top with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, chopped cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken. Wrap up the flatbread around the filling, securing it tightly.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the Chicken Longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have the time.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you don’t have a grill, a cast iron skillet works great for getting a nice sear on the chicken.
• Warm the Flatbreads: Make sure to serve the flatbreads warm for the best texture and flavor.
• Customize the Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or roasted red peppers to make the gyros your own.

How to Serve

Serve the Chicken Gyros immediately after assembling. Pair with a side of Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal. These gyros can also be served as a fun and interactive meal for guests to assemble themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also store extra tzatziki in a separate container.

Freezing

The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave when ready to use.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to retain its juiciness, or wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven. Flatbreads should be reheated in a dry pan for a few minutes on each side to revive their soft texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works as well, but it may be a bit drier. Consider marinating it longer for better flavor and moisture.

2. Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Can I make this recipe with store-bought flatbreads?

Yes, you can use store-bought flatbreads if you’re short on time, but homemade flatbreads add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

4. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Red wine vinegar is traditional, but you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar for a different taste.

5. Can I use gluten-free flour for the flatbreads?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the flatbreads, and they will still turn out delicious.

6. How do I make the gyros spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes or some hot sauce to the tzatziki or sprinkle on top for extra heat.

7. Can I make the chicken gyros vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with falafel, grilled vegetables, or a plant-based protein option to make a vegetarian version.

8. What kind of chicken should I use?

Skinless, boneless chicken thighs are ideal because they’re tender and juicy, but chicken breasts work too.

9. Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

You can, but making it fresh adds a personal touch and a much richer flavor to the gyros.

10. Can I make the chicken gyros ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the chicken and tzatziki ahead of time, but assemble the gyros right before serving for the freshest taste.

Conclusion

This Chicken Gyros recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a traditional Greek meal from the comfort of your own home. With juicy, marinated chicken, homemade flatbreads, and refreshing tzatziki, you’ll savor the authentic flavors of Greece with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or craving a flavorful meal, these gyros offer a fun, customizable, and healthy option for any occasion.

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• Tasty Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice Recipe
• Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

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