Greek Yogurt Chicken Gyros

Name: Greek Yogurt Chicken Gyros
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Pita bread; Fresh cucumber, diced; Tomato, diced; Red onion, thinly sliced; Feta cheese, crumbled

Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love these Greek Yogurt Chicken Gyros! They bring together the tender flavors of marinated chicken, the creaminess of Greek yogurt sauce, and the fresh crunch of veggies, all wrapped in warm pita bread. It's a meal that makes you feel indulgent yet light at the same time. Every time I make this dish, my family is drawn to the table, excited to enjoy these vibrant flavors. Plus, the marination technique I use ensures that the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Trust me, this gyro recipe will soon become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:53:27.574Z

The first time I made Greek Yogurt Chicken Gyros, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key is letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in a tangy yogurt blend, which keeps it moist and tender while infusing incredible flavors. I love experimenting with different spices, too, like smoked paprika and garlic powder, which elevate the dish even more.

One of the best tips I can share is to serve these gyros with a variety of toppings. Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese not only bring color to the plate but also complement the creamy yogurt sauce wonderfully. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes!

Why You'll Love These Gyros
Juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection
Creamy and zesty Greek yogurt sauce adds a refreshing taste
Customizable with fresh veggies and toppings for every preference

Perfecting Your Chicken Marinade

The key to achieving juicy chicken in your gyros starts with the marinade. Greek yogurt not only imparts flavor but also tenderizes the chicken due to its acidity. During marination, the proteins break down, allowing them to absorb all those delicious spices. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marination, but if you have more time, marinating for up to three hours will amplify the flavors even further.

A pinch of smoked paprika gives the chicken a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Don’t skimp on the salt; it’s essential for balancing the yogurt's creaminess and intensifying the spices. If you're looking to lower the fat content, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt, but be cautious; marination times should remain similar to avoid drying out the chicken.

Making the Yogurt Sauce Shine

Your yogurt sauce is a crucial component that brings brightness and creaminess to the gyros. Feel free to add fresh herbs like dill or mint for an extra flavor burst. Fresh herbs will add a whole new layer of freshness and complexity to the sauce, making it even more irresistible.

To achieve the ideal consistency, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the Greek yogurt before mixing. This step prevents a watery sauce that might make the pita soggy. If you prefer a thinner sauce, whisk in a teaspoon of water or more lemon juice until the desired texture is reached. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, remembering that a pinch more salt can make all the difference.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

When assembling your gyros, make sure the pita is warmed just enough for pliability—this helps to create a nice wrap and prevents tearing. You can also experiment with different toppings like pickled jalapeños or grilled bell peppers for added flavor and color. Remember, the beauty of gyros is in their customization, so feel free to get creative!

If you have leftovers, store the marinated chicken separately from the loaded gyros to preserve freshness. The cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to three days and warms up beautifully in a skillet over medium heat or even in the microwave. For a refreshing meal prep idea, try serving the marinated chicken over a salad the next day for a lighter option.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Greek Yogurt Chicken Gyros.

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Yogurt Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Pita bread
Fresh cucumber, diced
Tomato, diced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Feta cheese, crumbled

Make sure to gather all ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious gyro experience.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.

Assemble the Gyros

Warm the pita bread on the grill for about 1 minute. Place cooked chicken on the pita, top with yogurt sauce, fresh cucumber, tomato, onion, and crumbled feta.

Serve

Roll up the pita and serve immediately, enjoying the burst of flavors and textures.

Feel free to customize your gyros with additional toppings like olives or avocado!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, grill the veggies for a smoky taste. You can also prepare the chicken a day in advance for added convenience.

Troubleshooting Chicken Cooking

When cooking your chicken, ensure that the grill or skillet is preheated properly to achieve a nice char. If your chicken is sticking to the grill, it may not be sufficiently heated; give it a few more minutes before trying to flip it. Ideally, you want to see golden-brown edges which indicate that it’s doing well.

If you’re worried about the chicken being overcooked and dry, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If it’s reading higher, remove the chicken immediately to prevent dryness.

Flavor Variations

Don't hesitate to mix and match spices based on your taste preferences. For a more Mediterranean twist, consider adding sumac or za’atar to the chicken marinade for a unique flavor. These spices will introduce a zesty element that pairs beautifully with the yogurt sauce.

You can also try different types of yogurt in the sauce; for example, adding a dollop of tzatziki can bring in additional crunch from grated cucumber. People often enjoy these gyros with spicy or sweet salsa as an interesting alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and yogurt sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can the marinade be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before adding the chicken.

→ What can I serve alongside gyros?

A fresh Greek salad or roasted potatoes would pair beautifully with these gyros.