Step 1: The Greek Chicken Marinade

Start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything until smooth. Add your chicken thighs or breasts and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate.

Pro Tip

Greek yogurt and lemon juice gently break down the proteins in the chicken. This makes the meat incredibly tender without turning it rubbery.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight. If you’re in a rush, even 30 minutes will help.

Step 2: The Creamiest Homemade Tzatziki

While the chicken marinates, make the tzatziki. Grate the cucumber, then squeeze it firmly in a clean towel or paper towel to remove excess water. This step is key.

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, the grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill or mint, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed and creamy.

CRITICAL TIP

If you skip squeezing the cucumber, your sauce will turn watery. Always drain it well.

Creative Variation

Love Feta? Try a Whipped Feta Tzatziki

Add a few tablespoons of crumbled feta and a splash of cream to your tzatziki. Blend it until smooth and fluffy for a bold twist.

Step 3: How to Cook the Chicken

This is where you take control. Choose the cooking method that fits your kitchen and mood.

Method 1: On the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grates. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.

Pros

Smoky flavor with beautiful char lines

Cons

Needs outdoor space and good weather

Method 2: On the Stovetop or Skillet

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.

Pros

Quick and easy with great browning

Cons

May create smoke indoors

Method 3: In the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F.

Pros

Great for meal prep and batch cooking

Cons

Lacks the charred flavor of grilling

Method 4: In the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Pros

Fast and produces crispy edges

Cons

You might need to cook in batches

Step 4: Assembling Your Perfect Gyro

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in.

Warm your pita bread slightly in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.

How to Wrap a Gyro

Lay the pita flat. Add sliced chicken, a dollop of tzatziki, and your choice of toppings like tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, lettuce, and feta. Fold the bottom of the pita up, then wrap one side over the other. Secure it with parchment paper for that real gyro shop feel.