Description
This Chicken Gyros recipe features succulent marinated chicken thighs baked to perfection and served in warm pita bread with classic toppings like tzatziki sauce, red onions, and cherry tomatoes. The marinade combines Greek yogurt, lemon juice, spices, and garlic for a tangy and aromatic flavor profile, making it a delicious, easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Toppings and Assembly
- 4 pita breads
- ¼ cup tzatziki sauce
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken thighs with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large freezer bag. Seal the bag tightly and massage well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours for best flavor, or even up to 24 hours if time permits.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with a roasting rack to allow air circulation beneath the chicken. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and edges are slightly crispy. For an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil and cook the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can grill or pan-fry the chicken if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Prepare the Gyros: Once cooked, roughly chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Warm the pita breads either in the microwave or in a dry skillet over medium heat until pliable. Fill each pita with the chopped chicken, a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, thinly sliced red onions, and halved cherry tomatoes. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade chicken gyros!
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavors and tenderness.
- Using a roasting rack helps the chicken crisp up by allowing hot air to circulate underneath.
- For a healthier option, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Toppings are customizable: add cucumbers, feta cheese, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and used in salads or wraps.
