If you’ve ever craved the tender, flavorful delight of street-style Turkish chicken doner kebab, you are in for a treat with this Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe. This recipe brings together juicy marinated chicken thighs, perfectly spiced and charred, paired with a rich, tangy yogurt sauce that adds that luscious creaminess we all love. It’s a fantastic meal that feels indulgent but made simply with wholesome ingredients you can trust. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, this dish hits all the right notes and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to unlocking amazing flavor. Each one plays a key role—primarily simple pantry staples that combine into a symphony of vibrant tastes and satisfying texture.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, opting for thighs over breasts helps keep the meat tender and perfect for grilling.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps carry the spices evenly across the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with a fresh tang and helps tenderize the meat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a bold, aromatic punch essential to authentic doner flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin deepens the spice profile beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika: Adds a smoky depth and gorgeous red hue.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrus note that complements other warm spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Offers a hint of sweetness that elevates the overall complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a fragrant Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (optional): Helps break down proteins, resulting in extra tender chicken.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the luscious doner sauce.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for sauce): Gives the sauce a bright lift.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce): Boosts silkiness and helps meld flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlicky note in the sauce without overwhelming it.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for sauce): Echoes the marinade’s herbaceous tones.
- Salt and pepper (for sauce), to taste: Perfectly balances the sauce.
- 4 pita bread, flatbreads, or wraps: Soft and warm, these are your vehicles for all that gorgeous filling.
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced: Adds crisp freshness.
- 1 medium tomato, sliced: Juicy, vibrant, and colorful.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Sharpness and crunch to complement the chicken.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional): Brightens the dish with herbal notes and lovely color.
- Pickled vegetables or olives (optional): Add tangy surprise bites that balance richness.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon if you’re using it, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins, infusing every bite of chicken with a delightful blend of spices.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to your marinade bowl and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. If you want your chicken extra tender, stir in a tablespoon of plain yogurt here. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least an hour, or even better, up to six hours, to let those flavors really soak in.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Taste and tweak as you like. This sauce is the perfect creamy counterpoint to the spicy, smoky chicken—trust me, you’ll want plenty!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, adding a little olive oil if you’re using a pan to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until beautifully charred outside and juicy inside, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for five minutes to lock in the juices before thinly slicing.
Step 5: Assemble Your Doner Kebab
Warm your pita bread or wraps briefly in a dry pan to make them soft and pliable. Layer with a generous serving of the sliced chicken, then add fresh cucumber, tomato, onion, and any other toppings you love—fresh herbs and pickled veggies are fantastic additions. Finally, drizzle your creamy Greek yogurt sauce over everything and prepare for pure deliciousness.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To take your kebab to the next level, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top. These herbs add a bright, fresh contrast to the smoky-spiced chicken and creamy sauce. If you enjoy a tangy kick, toss on some pickled vegetables or olives—they bring lively bursts that balance richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or classic crispy fries that soak up the delicious sauce. You could even try serving it alongside a tangy tabbouleh or a cucumber and tomato salad to keep things light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your kebabs sliced on a platter alongside bowls of veggies, pickles, and that irresistible creamy sauce for a “build-your-own” kebab bar. Alternatively, stuff the chicken and sauce inside pita pockets for an easy handheld meal perfect for picnics or casual family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep any leftover chicken and sauce stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This preserves freshness and prevents the pita bread from becoming soggy. Leftover chicken is great for up to 3 days, keeping that wonderful flavor intact.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The creamy sauce is best kept fresh and not frozen, but you can prepare it ahead and refrigerate for up to two days.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven so it stays juicy and doesn’t dry out. Avoid microwaving if you can, or do so briefly and cover to trap moisture. Warm the pita or flatbreads separately just before serving to keep them soft and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, especially if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs.
Is the Greek yogurt sauce necessary?
The creamy Greek yogurt sauce is what makes this recipe stand out—it complements the spices and adds moisture. While you could skip it, we highly recommend keeping it for the full authentic experience.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least one hour is necessary for flavor, but up to six hours is even better. If you’re in a rush, try to aim for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the spices some time to infuse.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the pita or flatbread for gluten-free wraps or serve the chicken over a bed of rice or salad instead.
What sides go best with this Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe?
Traditional sides like fries, fresh salads, or pickled vegetables work beautifully. You can also try roasted vegetables or even grains like couscous for a hearty accompaniment.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite because it marries ease with incredible flavor so well. From the perfectly spiced chicken to the cooling, creamy sauce, every bite feels like a warm, satisfying hug. I encourage you to try it out and enjoy the smiles it brings around your table – it’s a delicious way to celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing great food.
Print
Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab with Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Chicken Doner Kebab recipe offers a flavorful and juicy twist on the classic Middle Eastern street food. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, the chicken is served wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy doner sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe combines tender grilled chicken with vibrant and tangy accompaniments for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner meat)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)
For the Doner Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- 4 pita bread, flatbreads, or wraps
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Pickled vegetables or olives (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. For extra tenderness, incorporate 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt into the marinade mixture.
- Chill the Chicken: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop and tenderize the meat.
- Make the Doner Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning of Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for the desired flavor balance, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat Grill or Grill Pan: Prepare your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat; if using a grill pan, lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be charred and crispy on the outside.
- Rest and Slice the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices, then slice into thin strips suitable for wrapping.
- Warm the Pita or Flatbreads: Heat the pita breads or wraps in a dry pan for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
- Assemble the Doner Kebab: Lay out each warmed pita, layer generously with sliced chicken, then add cucumber, tomato, onion, and optional toppings like parsley or pickled vegetables.
- Drizzle with Doner Sauce: Spoon the prepared doner sauce over the fillings to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Serve the kebabs hot, accompanied by extra sauce on the side, and optionally alongside fries or a light salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using chicken breasts instead of thighs will result in leaner kebabs but may be slightly less juicy.
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 6 hours) improves flavor and tenderness.
- The doner sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For added authenticity, serve with pickled vegetables like turnips or olives.
- Heating the pita bread prevents cracking and makes wrapping easier.
- You can substitute the grill method with oven broiling if a grill is not available, cooking until charred and cooked through.
