📝 About This Recipe
Transport your kitchen to the bustling streets of Monastiraki with this authentic Chicken Gyros, a beloved staple of Greek fast food. Succulent chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, and aromatic herbs before being seared to golden-brown perfection. Wrapped in warm, pillowy pita bread with cool tzatziki and crisp vegetables, it offers a masterful balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors that define the Mediterranean spirit.
🥗 Ingredients
The Chicken & Marinade
- 2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (sliced into thin strips)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full fat preferred for tenderness)
- 3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil (high quality Greek oil)
- 1 large Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons Dried oregano (Greek wild oregano is best)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (adds a subtle char flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
- 1/2 English cucumber (grated and squeezed dry)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (strained/thick variety)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (mashed into a paste)
- 1 teaspoon Red wine vinegar (for a classic tang)
Assembly & Garnish
- 4 pieces Pita bread (thick, Greek-style pocketless pita)
- 1/2 Red onion (very thinly sliced)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups French fries (cooked until crispy; essential for authenticity)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
In a large glass bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
-
2
Add the sliced chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor penetration.
-
3
Prepare the tzatziki by grating the cucumber. Place the gratings in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze forcefully to remove all excess moisture. This prevents a watery sauce.
-
4
In a small bowl, combine the squeezed cucumber, yogurt, dill, garlic paste, and red wine vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt, stir well, and refrigerate until serving.
-
5
Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
-
6
Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Place the chicken in the hot skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
-
7
Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side without moving it too much, allowing a deep, golden-brown crust to form which mimics the vertical rotisserie 'spit' flavor.
-
8
Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), remove from heat and let it rest for 2 minutes.
-
9
Wipe the skillet clean and briefly toast each pita bread for 30 seconds per side until soft, pliable, and warm.
-
10
To assemble, spread a generous tablespoon of tzatziki down the center of a warm pita.
-
11
Layer a handful of the seared chicken, followed by sliced red onions, tomatoes, and a few hot, crispy French fries inside the pita.
-
12
Fold the pita tightly, wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to hold it together, and serve immediately while the contrast between hot meat and cold sauce is at its peak.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use chicken thighs rather than breasts; the higher fat content keeps the meat juicy during the high-heat searing process. Don't skip the fries inside the wrap! It is the hallmark of a true Greek street-style gyro. Ensure the cucumber for the tzatziki is bone-dry; use a cheesecloth or a sturdy paper towel to wring out every drop of juice. If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the enzymes in the yogurt to fully tenderize the meat. For an extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken on an outdoor grill over high heat instead of a skillet.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp, cold Mythos or Fix Hellas beer for the ultimate Athens street food experience. Serve alongside a Horiatiki (traditional Greek salad) with plenty of feta and Kalamata olives. A side of lemon-herb roasted potatoes makes this a more substantial sit-down meal. For a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing, serve with a carafe of iced water infused with lemon and fresh mint.