Greek Chicken Gyros is a beloved dish originating from Greece, typically made with seasoned meat (often pork, lamb, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then wrapped in pita bread with fresh toppings like tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and a generous serving of creamy tzatziki sauce.
This dish combines savory, tender chicken with vibrant, fresh flavors, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
In this recipe, we’re bringing the flavors of classic Greek gyros to your kitchen using an air fryer!
The air fryer offers a healthier way to cook the chicken, reducing the need for extra oils while still delivering that crispy, golden-brown texture. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or hosting a Mediterranean-themed gathering, Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to become a family favorite.
Using an air fryer to cook your Greek chicken offers several advantages. Not only does it make the cooking process faster, but it also reduces the amount of oil you typically need.
The air fryer’s convection heat ensures the chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Plus, the ease of cleaning up afterward makes it a win-win!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
To make your own Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros at home, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. These combine to create a flavorful, well-seasoned chicken that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings and a soft pita wrap.
For the Chicken Marinade
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or breasts, if you prefer a leaner cut)
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves, minced, bring that robust, savory flavor.
- Lemon Juice – For a tangy kick and a bit of brightness.
- Dried Oregano – A classic herb for Greek dishes, giving it that Mediterranean taste.
- Ground Cumin – Adds a subtle earthiness to the chicken.
- Paprika – A smoky, slightly sweet spice to enhance the flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, helping to balance and bring out the other flavors.
For the Toppings and Wraps
- Pita Bread (or flatbreads, if preferred) – Soft, pillowy bread for wrapping everything up.
- Fresh Vegetables:
- Tomatoes – Juicy, ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped.
- Cucumbers – Thinly sliced for a refreshing crunch.
- Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and color.
- Feta Cheese – Crumbled or in blocks, it adds a tangy, creamy texture.
- Tzatziki Sauce – The quintessential sauce for gyros, made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs.
- Optional Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill can be sprinkled on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
1. Marinate the Chicken
The first step in creating flavorful, juicy chicken gyros is to prepare a delicious marinade. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until fully mixed. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces (about 1-2 inches) for even cooking. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours if you want more intense flavor).
2. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the chicken, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This allows the air fryer to reach the optimal temperature for cooking the chicken quickly and evenly, giving it a nice, crisp finish. Preheating is crucial for the best results!
3. Air Fry the Chicken
Once your air fryer is preheated, arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow air to circulate evenly around the chicken, ensuring a crisp exterior and juicy interior. Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. If necessary, add a few extra minutes for thicker pieces of chicken.
4. Prepare the Toppings
While the chicken is cooking, it’s the perfect time to prep your toppings! Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Set them aside in separate bowls for easy assembly. If you’re making your own tzatziki sauce, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth, then refrigerate until ready to serve. Crumble the feta cheese and chop any fresh herbs you want to use as garnish.
5. Assemble the Gyros
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to put everything together! Warm the pita bread or flatbread in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes if you prefer a softer wrap. Lay the pita flat and spoon the cooked chicken onto the center. Top with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, followed by the fresh veggies (tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions). Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs for extra flavor. Carefully fold the pita over the fillings to create your gyro wrap.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
1. Adjust Cooking Time for Different Chicken Cuts
While chicken thighs tend to stay juicy and tender, chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. If you’re using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes and monitor the internal temperature closely. For both cuts, remember that the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Make the Chicken Extra Crispy
For an extra crispy texture on the outside, you can lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil over it before air frying. This helps the chicken crisp up without drying it out. Another tip is to cook the chicken in batches, ensuring that each piece has enough space in the air fryer basket to allow air to circulate evenly.
3. Don’t Skip the Marinade Time
Letting the chicken marinate is crucial for flavor absorption. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating, but longer (up to 2 hours) will give the chicken an even deeper flavor profile. Don’t rush this step—it’s what gives your gyros that authentic, zesty taste.
4. Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients for Toppings
For the freshest flavors, use ripe, in-season vegetables. Slicing the cucumbers and tomatoes just before serving ensures they stay crisp and refreshing. If you’re making your own tzatziki, use thick Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture. Store-bought tzatziki works, but homemade elevates the dish.
5. Warm the Pita Bread
To prevent your gyro from feeling too dry or tough, warm the pita bread before wrapping. This step enhances the flavor and makes it more pliable. You can either heat it in the air fryer for a minute or two, or wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven.
6. Add Extra Seasonings or Spice for Personal Touch
If you like your gyros with a bit of heat, feel free to add chili flakes, hot sauce, or paprika to the marinade. You can also enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like parsley or dill as a finishing touch on top of the assembled gyros.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
1. Overcooking the Chicken
One of the biggest mistakes when using an air fryer is overcooking the chicken. While the air fryer cooks quickly, it’s important to monitor the chicken’s progress and check the internal temperature. Overcooked chicken can turn dry and tough, so stick to the 165°F (74°C) target and avoid cooking it past that point.
2. Not Letting the Chicken Marinate Long Enough
If you skip the marinating step or don’t let the chicken soak in the flavors long enough, you risk missing out on the authentic Greek taste. The longer the chicken marinates, the better the flavor will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can manage a couple of hours, the chicken will be even more flavorful.
3. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
While it may seem like you can load the air fryer up with more chicken to save time, overcrowding the basket will prevent the hot air from circulating properly. This can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken. For best results, cook in batches, ensuring enough space for the air to circulate around each piece.
4. Skipping the Toppings Preparation
Fresh toppings are what make a gyro truly stand out. Don’t overlook the importance of preparing the veggies and tzatziki sauce ahead of time. Cutting vegetables and assembling the toppings while the chicken is cooking helps streamline the process and ensures everything is ready when the chicken is done.
5. Using the Wrong Type of Pita
Not all pitas are created equal. Opt for soft, thick pita bread that can easily hold all your fillings. Thin or overly dry pita can tear or become hard when wrapped around the chicken and toppings. If you’re unsure, go for a high-quality Greek-style pita or a soft flatbread for the best results.
6. Forgetting to Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is an important step for achieving even cooking and that perfect crispy finish. Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking, especially with chicken. Always preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature before adding your chicken.
By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to perfect your Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros and enjoy a delicious, authentic meal every time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out if overcooked. If you prefer chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness earlier. To keep the chicken juicy, consider marinating it for longer to help lock in moisture.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros gluten-free, simply swap out the regular pita bread for a gluten-free variety or use gluten-free flatbreads. You can also find gluten-free tzatziki at some stores or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.
3. How can I make the gyros spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily spice up your gyros. Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a little hot sauce to the chicken marinade. You can also drizzle extra spicy sauce on top of the tzatziki before serving to give it a spicy kick.
4. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can be marinated ahead of time. In fact, marinating the chicken overnight in the fridge will give it even more time to absorb the flavors. You can also cook the chicken in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes before assembling your gyros.
5. Can I make Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros in bulk for a party?
Definitely! You can easily scale up this recipe for a larger crowd. Just be sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Set up a “gyro station” where guests can assemble their gyros with their choice of toppings, allowing them to personalize their meal.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros bring the bold, mouthwatering flavors of Greece right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum taste. With juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki all wrapped up in soft pita bread, these gyros are not only easy to make but incredibly satisfying.
By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can create an authentic, delicious meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these gyros are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings and make the recipe your own!
Ready to get cooking? Grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy these irresistible Greek chicken gyros tonight!
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer (Capacity: 5.8 quarts)
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Tongs or Spatula
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Measuring Spoons Set
- 1 Grater (for grating cucumber for tzatziki, optional)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 lbs 680g Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or breasts)
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 Garlic Cloves minced
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
For the Toppings and Wraps
- 4 Pita Bread or flatbread
- 1 Tomato sliced
- 1/2 Cucumber thinly sliced
- 1/4 Red Onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese crumbled
- 1/2 cup Tzatziki Sauce
- Fresh Herbs parsley or dill, optional
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Air Fry the Chicken
- Place the marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Toppings
- While the chicken is cooking, slice the tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Set aside. Crumble the feta cheese and prepare the tzatziki sauce. Optionally, chop fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish.
Assemble the Gyros
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips. Warm the pita bread for 1-2 minutes in the air fryer or on a griddle. To assemble, lay the warm pita flat, add a portion of sliced chicken, top with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, and fresh herbs. Fold the pita over to form a wrap.
Notes
- Chicken Cut: You can use either chicken thighs or breasts, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner but require more careful cooking to prevent dryness.
- Marinating: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Tzatziki Substitute: If you don’t have time to make homemade tzatziki, store-bought tzatziki will work just fine for a quicker option.
- Serving Size: Feel free to scale up the recipe for larger groups. The chicken can be easily doubled for a crowd!
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
