The Best Air Fryer Chicken Gyros Recipe

Craving juicy, flavorful chicken gyros without the hassle? These air fryer chicken gyros deliver restaurant-quality taste in just 20 minutes! The perfectly seasoned chicken gets incredibly tender while developing a beautiful golden crust.

Just like our popular air fryer Mediterranean chicken bowls, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Your family will be asking for seconds before they’ve finished their first bite!

What are Air Fryer Chicken Gyros?

Ever wondered why these Greek wraps are called “gyros”? The name comes from the Greek word meaning “to turn” – traditionally referring to meat cooked on a rotating spit. But who has time for that? Our air fryer version captures all that Mediterranean magic without the fancy equipment.

As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these gyros will definitely steal some hearts! Ready to bring Greece to your kitchen tonight?

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Gyros Recipe

Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home The air fryer creates the perfect balance of juicy interior and crispy edges that makes gyro meat so irresistible. Each bite bursts with Mediterranean herbs and spices that transport you straight to a Greek taverna.

Budget-Friendly Family Meal Skip the expensive takeout and make these gyros for a fraction of the cost. One pound of chicken feeds the whole family, and you probably have most of the spices in your pantry already.

Customizable Toppings Galore From creamy tzatziki to fresh vegetables, these gyros are your canvas for creativity. The combination of cool cucumber, tangy feta, and warm pita creates a symphony of textures and flavors.

Similar to our air fryer chicken shawarma, this recipe proves that international flavors are achievable on busy weeknights. Why not give your taste buds a Greek vacation tonight?

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Gyros

Quick Overview

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken thighs into extraordinary Greek-style gyros using simple pantry spices and your trusty air fryer. The secret lies in the marinade that infuses every bite with authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating) Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Serves: 4-6 people

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Gyros

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

For Serving:

• 6 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. This aromatic blend creates the authentic gyro flavor profile.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the moment you add the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Remove chicken from marinade and arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Slice Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This resting period keeps the juices locked in.

Step 6: Warm the Pita Quickly warm pita breads in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds.

Step 7: Assemble Your Gyros Spread tzatziki on each pita, add sliced chicken, and top with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, and fresh parsley.

What to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Gyros With

Traditional Greek Sides:

• Greek-style roasted potatoes with lemon and herbs
• Village-style Greek salad (horiatiki)
• Crispy air fryer pita chips with hummus

Light and Fresh Options:

• Mediterranean quinoa salad
• Grilled or air-fried vegetables
• Lemon rice pilaf

Beverage Pairings:

• Crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc
• Greek beer or light lager
• Fresh lemonade with mint

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Chicken Gyros

Choose the Right Cut

Chicken thighs are essential for authentic gyros. They stay juicier than breasts and have more flavor. Don’t substitute with chicken breasts unless you reduce cooking time.

Don’t Skip the Marinade

Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but overnight marinating creates restaurant-quality results. The acid in lemon juice tenderizes while spices penetrate deeply.

Avoid Overcrowding

Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of that desired crispy exterior.

Check Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough.

Slice Against the Grain

Cut chicken perpendicular to the muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked chicken gyro meat in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep vegetables and tzatziki separate to maintain freshness and prevent soggy pitas.

Freezer Storage: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy weeknight meals.

Reheating Instructions:

• Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth

Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Prep all vegetables and store separately. Cook chicken and freeze for future quick meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but reduce cooking time to 10-12 minutes and watch carefully to prevent drying out. Thighs are preferred for their superior flavor and moisture retention.

What if I don’t have tzatziki sauce?

Make your own with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Alternatively, use plain Greek yogurt mixed with fresh herbs.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Skip the feta cheese and use coconut yogurt-based tzatziki or simply add extra vegetables and a drizzle of tahini.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook, use chicken thighs instead of breasts, and let the chicken rest after cooking. The marinade also helps retain moisture.

Can I prep this recipe in advance?

Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, prep vegetables, and store everything separately. Cook the chicken when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover gyros?

Reheat chicken separately in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, then assemble fresh gyros with new pita and cold toppings.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 gyro)
Calories	385
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	650mg
Sugar	4g

Nutritional values are approximate and based on using chicken thighs with pita bread and standard toppings.

Bonus Tips for Success

Spice Variations: Experiment with different spice blends like za’atar, sumac, or even a pinch of allspice for unique flavor profiles.

Vegetable Additions: Try roasted red peppers, pickled onions, or fresh mint for extra Mediterranean flair.

Sauce Alternatives: Besides tzatziki, consider hummus, tahini sauce, or a simple lemon-herb yogurt dressing.

Meal Prep Magic: Double the recipe and use leftover chicken for salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

This air fryer chicken gyros recipe proves that incredible Mediterranean flavors are just minutes away. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become your new go-to weeknight dinner. The combination of perfectly spiced chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki creates a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, these gyros deliver every time. So fire up that air fryer and get ready to taste the magic of Greece in your own kitchen!