Chicken Gyro Recipe

Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main Courses
homemade chicken thigh gyro meat inside a whole wheat pita with vegetables

If you’re a fan of Greek cuisine, this chicken gyro recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Featuring tender, marinated chicken roasted to perfection and stacked high for that authentic gyro experience, this dish brings the classic flavors of Greek street food right to your table—no rotisserie required.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for parties, these chicken gyros are both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Keep reading to learn how to make chicken gyros at home, plus serving ideas and customization tips to make them your own.

A Flavorful Greek Classic You Can Make at Home

This Greek chicken gyro recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. By using chicken thighs, you get juicy, tender meat with a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with warm pita bread and a refreshing yogurt-based sauce. The marinade, made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice and a blend of Mediterranean spices, infuses the chicken thigh gyros with incredible depth, making every bite mouthwatering.

Another great reason to try this recipe? It’s nutritious! With only 177 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying option that fits well into a balanced diet. Plus, it’s rich in lean protein and healthy fats, making it a great choice for those looking to fuel their day with nourishing ingredients.

On a Nutrisystem program? Each serving counts as two PowerFuels on your meal plan, perfect for pairing with a fiber-rich SmartCarb and your favorite non-starchy vegetables!

How to Make Chicken Gyros at Home

Creating authentic chicken gyros at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to achieve that perfect gyro flavor and texture:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: The key to tender and flavorful chicken gyro meat is a good marinade. The combination of Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin and black pepper not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or overnight for even better results).
  2. Stack and Roast: Traditional gyros are cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but you can achieve a similar effect by stacking marinated chicken thighs on skewers and roasting them in the oven. Baking at 400 degrees for 75 to 90 minutes ensures the chicken is juicy and cooked to perfection.
  3. Rest and Slice: After roasting, let the meat rest before slicing it into thin, juicy strips. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken gyros moist and flavorful.

What to Serve with Greek Chicken Gyros

A chicken gyro isn’t complete without the perfect sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

  • Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is the traditional wrap for Greek chicken gyros. Lightly toast it for extra flavor.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and lettuce add crunch and freshness.
  • Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of feta adds a tangy, salty touch.
  • Olives or Hummus: For extra Mediterranean flair, serve with Kalamata olives or a scoop of homemade hummus.

Want a low-carb option? Swap out the pita for a lettuce wrap or serve your chicken gyros recipe as a salad.

Ways to Customize Your Chicken Gyro Recipe

One of the best things about this chicken gyro recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your taste. Here are some simple ways to make it your own:

  • Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
  • While this recipe calls for chicken thigh gyros, you can also use chicken breast for a leaner option.
  • Swap out Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
  • If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of roasting it in the oven.
  • Marinate the chicken overnight, then cook it in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
  • In the summer, serve your gyros with a side of fresh Greek pasta salad and a chilled glass of lemonade.
  • In the colder months, pair them with a warm lentil soup or roasted vegetables for a cozy Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Whether you’re making these chicken gyros for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the flavors of Greece right in your own kitchen!

Servings: 8

Calories per Serving: 177

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • Juice of ½ a lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 lbs. chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

Directions:

  1. Prepare the marinade by mixing all the ingredients, except the chicken, in a bowl or a gallon-sized zip-top bag.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  4. If using a vertical spit, secure it. If not, cut an onion in half and place it flat-side down on a baking sheet. Insert two skewers into the onion.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, rotating the thighs as you layer them.
  6. Bake for 75-90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
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