Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
If you have been dreaming of the perfect blend of bold, vibrant flavors wrapped in warm, soft pita bread, look no further than Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe. This dish is an extraordinary fusion of tender marinated chicken, a tangy homemade sauce, crisp lettuce and tomatoes, and even crispy chips tucked inside for that satisfying crunch. Every bite transports you straight to the lively streets of Greece with authentic spices and a little secret twist that makes this recipe unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these gyros are guaranteed to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a critical role — from the juicy chicken thighs infused with a fragrant blend of paprika, oregano, and curry powder, to the creamy, garlicky sauce that brings all the elements together in harmony. These ingredients also add vibrant color and texture, making your gyros as visually appealing as they are delicious.
- Chicken thighs (1.25 kg / 2.5 lb, skinless boneless): Tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing the marinade’s bold spices.
- Sweet paprika (1 tbsp): Adds a mild smoky sweetness that’s essential for authentic flavor.
- Mustard powder (1 tbsp): Brings mild heat and depth; you can substitute Dijon mustard if needed.
- Dried oregano (1 tbsp): Classic Greek herb that infuses a lively, earthy touch.
- Curry powder (1/2 tbsp, mild): The secret ingredient that gives a subtle warm complexity without overpowering.
- Cooking salt / kosher salt (1 1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning, adjust if you use table salt or flakes.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just enough spice to balance the flavors.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1/3 cup): Helps tenderize the chicken and enrich the marinade.
- Thick-cut frozen chips (400g / 14oz, optional): Crispy, golden fries add unique texture and satisfy cravings.
- Table salt (pinch): For seasoning the chips perfectly.
- Plain yoghurt (1 cup, preferably Greek-style): Creates a creamy, tangy base for the sauce.
- Whole-egg mayonnaise (3 tbsp): Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
- Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Boosts flavor and silky texture in the sauce.
- Yellow American mustard (2 tbsp): Brings a sharp, mellow tang to the sauce (Dijon mustard is a good substitute).
- Garlic powder (2 tsp): For that irresistible savory aroma.
- Sweet paprika (2 tsp): Enhances the color and sweet spice in the sauce.
- Cooking salt / kosher salt (1/2 tsp): To balance the sauce flavors.
- Tomatoes (2, halved and sliced): Fresh and juicy addition to lighten the gyros.
- Cos lettuce / romaine (3 cups, finely sliced): Adds crisp freshness and slight crunch.
- Red onion (1/2 small, diced): Offers sharpness and vibrant color.
- Pita breads (5 x 20cm / 8″, slightly bready type): Warm, soft wraps that hold everything perfectly together.
How to Make Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing an aromatic marinade combining sweet paprika, mustard powder, dried oregano, mild curry powder, salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil. Toss your skinless, boneless chicken thighs thoroughly in this mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, although marinating overnight for a full 24 hours is ideal. This slow soak allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in mouthwatering tenderness and flavor that bring this gyro to life.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While your chicken marinates, whisk together plain Greek yoghurt, whole-egg mayonnaise, extra virgin olive oil, yellow American mustard, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and salt in a bowl. Let the sauce rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to meld and intensify the flavors. This creamy and tangy sauce is the binding flavor of Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe—it ties everything together with just the right balance of richness and zest.
Step 3: Cook the Chips (Optional)
If you love a gyro with a lovely crispy bite, heating up thick-cut frozen chips is your next step. Bake, fry, or air fry your chips according to your preference and season them with a pinch of salt. You can keep them warm in a low oven while cooking the chicken, so every element is ready to go together. Trust me, these golden fries add a wonderful texture twist that’s well worth the extra step!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
For that irresistible charred flavor, the BBQ is your best friend. Preheat it to medium-high heat and place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown with slightly charred edges. No need to oil the grill—the marinade already contains olive oil. If cooking indoors, a hot non-stick pan works brilliantly; just sear each batch for the same time until cooked through. Once cooked, rest the chicken loosely covered for 3 minutes before slicing into 1 cm pieces. This resting step ensures the juices stay inside, making each bite juicy and tender.
Step 5: Warm and Prepare the Pita
Getting your pita bread warm and pliable is key to folding a gyro without cracks. The microwave works wonderfully—stack the pitas on a plate and zap them for 45 seconds to a minute and a half. Alternatively, brush both sides lightly with water and warm them in a non-stick pan for about a minute on each side without over-crisping; you want soft, flexible pita that embraces all the fillings snugly.
Step 6: Assemble Your Gyros
Spread around 3 tablespoons of the luscious sauce down the center of each pita. Pile on a generous portion of sliced chicken, then add fresh romaine lettuce and juicy tomato slices on one side. Top with diced red onion and the warm crispy chips, then drizzle with extra sauce. Fold the pita to enclose the delicious filling, and wrap with foil to hold everything in place. Serve with an extra dollop of sauce on the side for dunking – it’s finger-licking good!
How to Serve Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh oregano or a few crumbles of feta cheese on top can elevate your gyros from fantastic to truly spectacular. A wedge of lemon on the side for squeezing adds a joyous pop of acidity that brightens every bite. These final touches bring out the authenticity and make your presentation extra special for your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve these gyros alongside a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion tossed in olive oil and vinegar to keep the meal light and refreshing. Alternatively, a bowl of tzatziki pairs beautifully, complementing the sauce and adding a cool contrast to the warm, spiced chicken. Of course, extra chips or fries are always a crowd-pleaser as a crispy side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, present your gyros as a gyro platter: arrange chicken slices, sauce, fresh veggies, chips, and warmed pita separately on a large board, letting everyone build their own. This interactive style is perfect for gatherings and lets each person customize their gyro experience. For a quick lunch, wrap them tightly in foil and enjoy on-the-go. Either way, Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe shines brightly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sliced chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep fresh pita, veggies, and chips separate if possible to avoid sogginess. This way, you can easily reassemble your gyros the next day with minimal effort, keeping all elements tasting fresh.
Freezing
While freezing cooked chicken for gyros is possible, it’s best to freeze it plain without the sauce or veggies for quality retention. Pop the cooked chicken pieces into an airtight freezer container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat until warm through to preserve juiciness. Warm your pita separately to keep it soft, and refresh your sauce in the fridge. Avoid microwaving the assembled gyro as the pita may harden or crack.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is leaner but can dry out faster, so marinate well and watch your cooking time closely to avoid overcooking. Thighs simply have more flavor and remain juicy more easily, which is why they’re preferred in Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe.
What makes the curry powder a “secret ingredient”?
That mild curry powder adds an unexpected layer of warmth and depth without turning the gyros into an Indian dish. It subtly lifts the spices and adds complexity, making the flavor profile uniquely delicious and memorable.
Can I make the sauce vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the yoghurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and swap mayonnaise for a vegan version. Adjust seasonings to taste to keep the creamy texture and tangy balance that makes the sauce so wonderful.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate for as little as 3 hours, but the best results come from marinating overnight (up to 24 hours). This gives the spices time to fully infuse and tenderize the chicken beautifully.
Why add chips inside the gyros?
Adding thick-cut chips gives an irresistible crunch and heartiness that contrast perfectly with the tender chicken and creamy sauce. It’s a traditional touch that many Greek gyro lovers adore, bringing an element of comfort food flair to this classic dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe that steals the show every single time. With its warm spices, creamy sauce, fresh veggies, and that special crunch from chips, it’s a culinary hug wrapped in pita bread. I encourage you to dive into making this recipe soon—once you do, these gyros will become your go-to for sharing joyful, flavorful meals with people you care about. Enjoy every delicious fold, and kalimera — good morning, or rather, good eating!
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Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
- Total Time: 24 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
Description
Kalimera’s Famous Greek Chicken Gyros is a delicious and authentic Greek street food recipe featuring marinated and grilled chicken thighs, a flavorful yogurt-mustard sauce, fresh vegetables, and optional thick-cut chips, all wrapped in warm pita bread. Perfectly balanced with herbs, spices, and creamy sauce, this recipe offers a satisfying and easy-to-assemble meal ideal for casual dining or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1.25 kg / 2.5 lb chicken thighs, skinless boneless
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika (regular paprika, not smoked or spicy)
- 1 tbsp mustard powder (or substitute with Dijon mustard)
- 1 tbsp dried oregano (Greek, if available)
- 1/2 tbsp mild curry powder (not spicy)
- 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
Chips (Optional)
- 400g / 14oz thick-cut frozen chips
- Pinch of table salt (or chicken salt) for seasoning
Sauce
- 1 cup plain yoghurt (preferably Greek or Greek-style)
- 3 tbsp whole-egg mayonnaise (regular mayonnaise works as substitute)
- 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
Fresh Vegetables & Bread
- 2 tomatoes, halved and sliced
- 3 cups cos lettuce (romaine), finely sliced (5mm / 0.2″)
- 1/2 small red onion, diced (5mm / 0.2″ squares)
- 5 x 20cm / 8″ pita breads (slightly bready kind preferred)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken – In a large bowl, combine sweet paprika, mustard powder, dried oregano, mild curry powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Add the chicken thighs and toss well to coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours, with a minimum marinating time of 3 hours to allow flavors to develop.
- Prepare the sauce – Mix the plain yoghurt, whole-egg mayonnaise, extra virgin olive oil, yellow mustard, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and salt in a bowl. Stir well and set aside for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the chips (optional) – If using frozen thick-cut chips, prepare them before cooking the chicken. You can bake, fry, or air fry the chips according to your preference. Season them with a pinch of salt (or chicken salt) to taste. Keep the cooked chips warm in a 100°C (200°F) oven while preparing the chicken.
- Cook the chicken gyros – You can choose between two primary cooking methods:
- BBQ method (recommended): Preheat the BBQ to medium-high heat. Using the grill side or flat iron plate, cook the marinated chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a deep golden color with slightly charred edges.
- Stovetop method: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat without oil. Cook the chicken thighs in batches, 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 72°C (162°F). Between batches, wipe the pan with paper towels to remove excess residue.
- Rest the chicken – Transfer the cooked chicken to a tray and loosely cover with foil. Allow it to rest for 3 minutes. Then slice the chicken into 1 cm (0.4″) pieces for easy assembly.
- Heat the pita bread – Warm the pita breads until they are soft and pliable. For convenience, microwave them stacked on a plate for 45 seconds to 1.5 minutes on high. Alternatively, brush both sides with water and heat each side in a lightly oiled non-stick pan for 1 minute over medium-high heat. Avoid crisping them too much to prevent cracking when folding.
- Assemble the gyros – Spread about 3 tablespoons of the prepared sauce down the center of each pita. Add a generous layer of sliced chicken on top. Place lettuce and tomato on one side, sprinkle diced red onion over, then add a pile of warm chips on top. Drizzle with additional sauce. Fold the pita around the fillings and wrap in foil to hold the gyro securely.
- Serve – Offer extra sauce on the side for dunking and enjoy your flavorful Greek chicken gyros!
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for a full 24 hours yields the best flavor, but a minimum of 3 hours is acceptable.
- The mild curry powder is a secret ingredient to add subtle warmth without spiciness.
- Chips are optional but recommended for authentic texture and taste; you can bake or fry them depending on your preference and convenience.
- Using yellow American mustard in the sauce adds a unique tanginess, but Dijon mustard can substitute if unavailable.
- Choose thicker, bready pita breads to prevent breakage when wrapping the gyros.
- Resting the cooked chicken before slicing ensures juiciness and better texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes (excluding marination)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
