Greek Chicken Gyros

If you’re craving a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired meal, these Greek Chicken Gyros are exactly what you need! This recipe takes boneless, skinless chicken thighs, marinates them in a savory blend of olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, lemon zest, garlic, and oregano, then roasts them to perfection. The result? Juicy, tender chicken with a caramelized char on the outside and a tangy, herb-infused flavor throughout. These gyros are versatile and can be enjoyed on pita, in a Greek salad, or with loaded fries. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests!

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Ingredients

• 12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.3 kg total)
• ⅛ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey Dijon mustard
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (or 3 large cloves)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ½ tbsp salt (adjust if using regular table salt)
• Dry oregano (to taste)
• 1 cup water or stock (for the bottom of the pan)

Instructions1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs, olive oil, honey Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and dry oregano.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for best results.

3. Prepare the Spit

1. If you have a Vertical Gyro Spit Plate, thread the marinated chicken thighs onto the spit, ensuring each piece is placed opposite to the previous one.
2. No vertical spit? You can make your own by halving an onion and placing it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or foil). Insert two wooden skewers vertically into the onion to create your makeshift spit.

4. Roast the Chicken

1. Place the spit into the oven and add 1 cup of water or stock to the base of the pan (this will help create the sauce).
2. Optional: Cover the top chicken thigh with a small piece of pierced foil to prevent it from burning.
3. Bake for 75–90 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes.

5. Slice and Serve

1. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.
2. Serve in pita with tzatziki, on a Greek salad, or enjoy with loaded Greek fries.

Flavor and Texture Notes

• Juicy and Tender: The chicken stays moist and tender thanks to the marinade and slow roasting.
• Savory & Tangy: The combination of lemon zest, garlic, and Dijon mustard adds a refreshing tang, while the oregano brings that signature Greek flavor.
• Perfect Char: The outside of the chicken develops a delicious, slightly crispy caramelized layer from roasting.

Tips & Tricks

Storage

• Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

No Vertical Spit?

• If you don’t have a vertical spit, creating your own with onions and skewers works perfectly. The chicken will still cook evenly and develop that crispy edge.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with pita bread and a side of Greek salad for a full Mediterranean meal.
• For a more filling option, serve with Greek fries or hummus for dipping.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Gyros are a game-changer, offering a savory and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The juicy, seasoned chicken paired with tzatziki or a Greek salad makes for a refreshing, satisfying dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on pita or with fries, this is a meal your taste buds won’t forget! 🥙🍗🍋