Sarah’s Homemade Chicken Gyros

Sometimes the best meals come from the most spontaneous moments. What started as a simple visit to my sister’s house and us going out to dinner turned into a cozy Sunday dinner at home — all thanks to my niece Sarah, who made up the most incredible homemade chicken gyros I’ve ever had.

The chicken was moist, the white sauce was fresh and tangy, the pita was warm and comforting — and the best part? It’s all super easy to make at home. Here’s how you can recreate it.

The Chicken Marinade

Ingredients:

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 packet (or 1 tsp) Sazon seasoning

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ½ tsp turmeric

• ½ tsp cumin

Instructions:

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl.

2. Add sliced or chopped chicken (breasts or thighs work great).

3. Mix well, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even better flavor.

4. Heat 2 tablespoons of corn oil (or any high-temp oil) in a pan.

5. Add the chicken and cook for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden.

6. Remove from heat and set aside.

The White Sauce (Simple & Tasty)

This creamy sauce ties everything together. It’s not exactly tzatziki — but it’s every bit as addictive.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp sour cream

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp dill (fresh or dried)

• A dash of vinegar (white or apple cider)

  

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.

2. Chill in the fridge while the chicken cooks.

Warm Pita, Fresh Toppings, and Final Assembly

Sarah warms her pita on a flat pan, pressing them down with a burger press to heat quickly and evenly. You can also wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

Topping Ideas:

• What we used: shredded carrots and cucumbers

• Other ideas: lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta, or pickled veggies

• Drizzle the white sauce generously over the chicken and toppings

Tip: Don’t be afraid to use what you have on hand. The beauty of gyros is how customizable they are.

we added a side of roasted garlic dip and chips, paired the meal with margaritas — because, why not? It was a Sunday to savor.