Name: Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.25 kg / 2.5 lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless; 1 tbsp sweet paprika (regular, not smoked or spicy); 1 tbsp mustard powder (or substitute with Dijon mustard); 1 tbsp dried oregano (preferably Greek); 1/2 tbsp mild curry powder (secret ingredient); 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt (halve if using table salt, +50% if flakes); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup / 250g plain yoghurt (preferably Greek or Greek-style); 3 tbsp whole-egg mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise); 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp yellow American mustard (or Dijon mustard); 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 2 tomatoes, halved and sliced; 3 cups cos lettuce (romaine), finely sliced (5mm / 0.2″); 1/2 small red onion, diced (5mm / 0.2″); 5 x 20cm / 8″ pita breads (choose slightly bready type); 400g / 14oz thick-cut chips (frozen, optional); Pinch table salt (for the chips or chicken salt)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you have ever wanted to capture the vibrant flavors and comforting textures of Mediterranean street food at home, then Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines tender, marinated chicken thighs infused with a blend of sweet paprika, oregano, and a secret hint of mild curry powder for a subtle twist that keeps every bite exciting. Wrapped in soft, warm pita bread and layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, tangy sauce, these gyros deliver a perfect balance of zest, freshness, and indulgence that will have you coming back for more. It’s a recipe steeped in tradition yet easy enough for a weeknight feast, and I’m thrilled to share every step with you so you can enjoy a true taste of Greece right at your own table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with several pieces of raw chicken covered in a shiny, deep orange-red marinade with visible spices, giving the chicken a smooth, wet texture. The chicken pieces are closely packed in the bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface. The marinade looks thick and coats each piece evenly, enhancing the rich color of the chicken photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays an essential role, from the fragrant spices layering the chicken to the creamy sauce that binds the flavors together. These simple items come together to create a dish that is anything but ordinary.

Chicken thighs: Skinless, boneless, and full of flavor, they stay juicy and tender after marinating and cooking.
Sweet paprika: Adds a lovely mild smokiness without overpowering the dish.
Mustard powder: Brings a subtle tang and depth; Dijon mustard is a fantastic substitute for extra richness.
Dried oregano: The Greek version infuses earthiness and brightness, embodying the Mediterranean spirit.
Mild curry powder: A secret, gentle twist that lifts the flavor profile uniquely and deliciously.
Cooking salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all tastes.
Extra virgin olive oil: For marinade and sauce, imparting richness and smoothness.
Frozen thick-cut chips (optional): Perfect for adding that classic gyro crunch and a touch of indulgence.
Plain Greek or Greek-style yogurt: Foundation of the creamy sauce, bringing velvety tartness.
Whole-egg mayonnaise: Adds luscious texture and smoothness to the sauce blend.
Yellow American mustard: A surprise ingredient that blends perfectly in the sauce for tang and bite.
Garlic powder and sweet paprika: Spice up the sauce with familiar warmth and depth.
Fresh tomatoes: Sliced for juiciness and color.
Cos lettuce (romaine): Finely shredded for crisp freshness and a pleasant crunch.
Red onion: Diced finely to provide a sharp, sweet note.
Pita breads: Slightly bready and soft, they are the perfect wrap for all these incredible fillings.

How to Make Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the paprika, mustard powder, dried oregano, mild curry powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a large bowl to create a deeply flavorful marinade. Toss in the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Marinating for at least three hours—ideally overnight—allows the spices to fully infuse the meat, resulting in juicy chicken packed with authentic Greek tastes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken soaks up all those flavors, prepare the irresistible sauce. Mix Greek yogurt, whole-egg mayonnaise, extra virgin olive oil, yellow American mustard, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and salt until smooth. Let the sauce rest for 20 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld, creating that creamy, tangy finishing touch that makes Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe truly unforgettable.

Step 3: Cook the Chips (Optional)

If you want that classic gyro experience, prepare thick-cut chips either by baking, frying, or air frying. Season them lightly with salt or chicken salt, and keep them warm in a low oven to maintain their crispness. The crispy chips add a fantastic texture contrast when layered inside the gyros.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

For the best flavor and a bit of char, I recommend cooking the chicken on a medium-high BBQ grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden and slightly charred around the edges. Alternatively, a hot non-stick pan works well—just cook in batches for that beautiful crust and juicy center. Once done, let the chicken rest covered for three minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces so it stays tender.

Step 5: Warm and Prepare the Pita

The pita breads need to be warm and pliable to fold easily without cracking. The microwave is a super quick option—stack them and heat for about a minute. Or brush each side lightly with water and warm them in a non-stick pan for one minute per side, making them soft and ready to wrap around your layers of deliciousness.

Step 6: Assemble Your Gyros

Spread three tablespoons of sauce down the center of each pita. Pile on the juicy sliced chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, diced red onion, and a layer of crispy chips if using. Drizzle with more sauce before folding tightly and wrapping in foil to secure everything. This finishing touch keeps the gyros together and makes them easy to enjoy without losing any of those tasty fillings.

How to Serve Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Two wraps are shown partially wrapped in shiny aluminum foil, resting on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each wrap has a soft, slightly toasted flatbread folded into a cone shape. Inside, there are three main visible layers: a base layer of grilled, browned meat with some crispy edges, a middle layer of fresh, bright green lettuce and a red tomato slice, and a top layer of creamy, light brown sauce drizzled over the ingredients. Some small pieces of meat have fallen out onto the paper, adding texture to the scene. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a little extra oregano on top elevate the gyros beautifully. Some freshly ground black pepper or even a squeeze of lemon can brighten every bite and add aromatic complexity without overshadowing the original flavors.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe to guests or making a full meal, consider pairing it with a light Greek salad, some tzatziki, or a simple cucumber and feta side. These dishes complement the gyros by adding fresh textures and enhancing the Mediterranean experience without competing with the robust taste of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party idea, serve the gyro components deconstructed on a platter so everyone can build their own. Alternatively, cut the assembled gyros in half diagonally and secure each half with a skewer for easy handling. You could also wrap them in parchment paper with a bit of rustic twine—a perfect casual, street-food vibe that looks inviting and tastes even better.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe, store the sliced chicken, sauce, and fresh veggies separately in airtight containers. This will keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess, especially the pita bread if stored apart and reheated just before eating.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken slices in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. It’s best to freeze them without sauce or veggies to maintain texture and flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a hot skillet or under the grill to revive its char and juiciness. Warm the pita separately until soft and flexible. Avoid microwaving assembled gyros as the bread may toughen or the fillings become watery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

While chicken breast can work, thighs are preferred for this recipe because they stay moist and flavorful after cooking and marinating. Breasts can dry out more easily, so if you use them, consider marinating longer and watch cooking time closely.

What is the purpose of the mild curry powder in the marinade?

The mild curry powder adds a subtle, warm complexity to the traditional Greek flavor profile. It’s a secret ingredient that makes Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe stand out without making it spicy or overwhelming.

Is it necessary to include the chips inside the gyro?

Chips are optional but highly recommended. They add crunch and authentic texture reminiscent of street-style gyros. If you prefer, you can serve them on the side instead.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce actually benefits from sitting for at least 20 minutes as the flavors meld beautifully. You can prepare it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until assembly.

What’s the best way to warm pita bread?

To keep pita soft and pliable, heat it briefly in the microwave or brush lightly with water and warm in a pan. Avoid high heat or overcooking to prevent cracking when folding.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe from scratch and sharing it with friends or family. With its fragrant spices, creamy sauce, and vibrant fresh ingredients all wrapped in soft pita, this dish brings the joy of Greek street food right to your kitchen table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I love eating it, and it becomes one of your treasured go-to recipes for any occasion.