Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these Greek Chicken Gyros, packed with tender, marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy cucumber tzatziki sauce. These handheld delights are flavorful, refreshing, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family feast.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
680g skinless chicken thighs or fillets
60ml olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cucumber Tzatziki
250ml plain Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and drained
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembly
4-6 pita breads, warmed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded lettuce
½ red onion, thinly sliced
50g crumbled feta cheese (optional)
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Add the chicken thighs or fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (for best flavor, marinate up to 4 hours).
Make the Cucumber Tzatziki
Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out the excess liquid to prevent a watery sauce.
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Mix well and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
Assemble the Gyros
Warm the pita breads either in the oven or on a dry skillet.
Spread a generous layer of tzatziki onto each pita.
Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (optional).
Serve and Enjoy
Fold the pita around the fillings and serve immediately.
Pair with a side of roasted potatoes or a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Tips for Recipe Success
Drain the Cucumber Thoroughly: This step is crucial for achieving thick and creamy tzatziki.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh dill, garlic, and lemon juice elevate the flavors in this dish.
Cook Chicken Evenly: Make sure your chicken pieces are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Use a meat mallet to pound thicker parts if necessary.
Warm Pitas Properly: Warm pita is easier to fold and enhances the overall texture and flavor of the gyro.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: While the chicken marinates, you can prepare the tzatziki and other ingredients, making this dish a breeze to assemble.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce, these gyros are both satisfying and wholesome.
Customizable: You can swap chicken for lamb, beef, or even a vegetarian option like grilled halloumi or falafel.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with Greek lemon potatoes, hummus, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.
Beverage: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled glass of white wine for a refreshing accompaniment.
Storage: Leftover chicken and tzatziki can be refrigerated in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Gyro)
Calories: 400
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
With its savory chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh toppings, this Greek Chicken Gyro recipe is a taste of Greece in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, flavorful meal, these gyros will transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean!