Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros (Stovetop or Grill)

These Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros are juicy, boldly seasoned, and packed with classic Mediterranean flavor, and they're easy to make at home on the stovetop or grill. Marinated chicken is cooked until golden and tender, then tucked into Warm Homemade Pita Bread with fresh toppings and creamy Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce, making this a weeknight-friendly meal that still feels special. Serve with Greek Lemon Potatoes or turn leftovers into Mediterranean Chicken Bowls for easy lunches throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This

• Authentic Greek flavors without complicated steps

• Works on the stovetop or outdoor grill

• Juicy, well-seasoned chicken with classic gyro spices

• Perfect for wraps, bowls, or meal prep

• Naturally pairs with sauces, sides, and salads you already love

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional) Cook Time: 12–15 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 4

Nutrition Information (per serving, gyro filling only)

• Calories: ~310

• Protein: ~34g

• Fat: ~10g

• Carbohydrates: ~6g

• Fiber: ~1g

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Serving

• Warm pita bread

• Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce

• Sliced tomatoes

• Thinly sliced red onion

• Shredded lettuce or sliced cucumber

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

2. Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours refrigerated.

3. Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

4. Grill method: Grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until lightly charred and fully cooked.

5. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

6. Serve warm in a pita with tzatziki and desired toppings.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken thighs for the juiciest, most traditional texture

• Slice chicken thinly after cooking for the best gyro-style bite

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle traditional Greek note

• Serve over rice or salad greens for an easy gyro bowl

• This seasoning also works beautifully with lamb or pork

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead

• Cooked chicken keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently in a skillet to prevent drying out

FAQ

Is gyro meat traditionally sliced or shaved? At home, thinly slicing cooked chicken gives the closest texture without special equipment.

Can I bake the chicken instead? Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, then broil briefly for color.

What’s the difference between gyros and souvlaki? Gyros are typically seasoned and sliced, while souvlaki is grilled in chunks or skewers.

Final Thoughts

These Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros bring classic Mediterranean street-food flavor into your own kitchen with simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods. They’re the kind of recipe that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for casual gatherings, especially when paired with creamy tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and warm pita. Once you make them, they tend to become a repeat favorite — easy, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.