Greek Chicken Gyros are a classic and beloved dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate. Featuring juicy, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread, these gyros are a delicious way to enjoy a taste of Greece at home. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Gyros have become popular worldwide, cherished for their versatility and the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh elements. The marinated chicken provides a burst of flavor, complemented by crisp vegetables and the refreshing coolness of tzatziki sauce. Wrapped in soft, warm pita bread, these gyros are not only delicious but also convenient, making them an ideal meal for any occasion.
This recipe captures the authentic taste of Greek street food, allowing you to create restaurant-quality gyros in your own kitchen. With simple, fresh ingredients and a few key techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors that make Greek Chicken Gyros a culinary favorite.
Overview of Greek Chicken Gyros
Greek Chicken Gyros consist of several key components that come together to create a harmonious and flavorful dish:
- Marinated Chicken: The chicken is marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, which infuse it with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds depth and complexity to the dish. Grilling the marinated chicken gives it a deliciously charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Tzatziki is a classic Greek sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. It’s creamy, tangy, and refreshing, providing the perfect complement to the savory grilled chicken. The tzatziki sauce adds a cool, smooth texture to the gyros, balancing out the spices in the chicken.
- Fresh Vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions are essential to the traditional gyro. They add freshness, crunch, and a slight acidity that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. These vegetables also contribute to the vibrant, colorful presentation of the gyros.
- Pita Bread: The pita bread serves as the vessel for all the delicious fillings. Warmed on the grill, it becomes soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping around the marinated chicken, tzatziki, and vegetables. The pita absorbs some of the juices from the chicken and sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
- Optional Additions: Feta cheese, lettuce, and olives are popular additions to gyros, adding extra flavor and texture. Feta cheese provides a salty, tangy note that pairs well with the chicken, while lettuce adds a refreshing crunch. Olives bring a briny, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients.
The beauty of Greek Chicken Gyros lies in their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste, adding or omitting ingredients as desired. Whether you prefer a simple gyro with just chicken and tzatziki or a fully loaded version with all the toppings, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Brief History and Cultural Significance of Gyros
Gyros have a rich history and cultural significance in Greek cuisine. The word “gyro” comes from the Greek word “gyros,” meaning “turn” or “revolution,” which refers to the traditional method of cooking the meat on a vertical rotisserie. As the meat turns on the rotisserie, it is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, flavorful slices that are shaved off and served in pita bread.
The origins of gyros can be traced back to ancient Greece, where similar dishes were prepared using various types of meat. However, the modern gyro as we know it today has its roots in the 19th century Ottoman Empire. The concept of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie was introduced by Turkish immigrants, who brought with them the tradition of “doner kebab.” This cooking technique was adopted and adapted in Greece, where it evolved into the gyro.
In Greece, gyros quickly became a popular street food, beloved for their convenience, affordability, and delicious flavor. They were often sold by vendors in bustling city streets, making them accessible to people from all walks of life. Over time, gyros became a staple of Greek cuisine, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Today, gyros are one of Greece’s most iconic dishes, representing the country’s rich culinary heritage. They are commonly served in Greek tavernas and restaurants, as well as at street food stalls. While the traditional gyro is made with pork or lamb, chicken gyros have become increasingly popular due to their lighter flavor and versatility.
Gyros have also gained international popularity, with variations of the dish found in many countries around the world. From New York to London, gyros are enjoyed in a variety of forms, often featuring different types of meat, sauces, and toppings. Despite these regional differences, the essence of the gyro—a delicious combination of marinated meat, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauce wrapped in pita bread—remains the same.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start preparing your Greek Chicken Gyros, it’s important to know the time commitment and what the recipe will yield:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 10-15 minutes
- Marinating time: 1-2 hours (or overnight for best results)
- Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Servings: 4-6 gyros
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make Greek Chicken Gyros, you’ll need the following tools. Each plays a crucial role in ensuring that your gyros turn out perfectly seasoned, grilled, and assembled.
- Mixing Bowls: Multiple mixing bowls are needed to prepare the chicken marinade, tzatziki sauce, and for tossing the vegetables. Using separate bowls helps keep the flavors distinct and makes the preparation process more organized.
- Whisk: A whisk is useful for mixing the marinade ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the olive oil, lemon juice, and spices are well combined.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for slicing the chicken into thin strips, as well as for cutting the vegetables. A good knife ensures clean, even cuts, which is important for both the texture and presentation of the gyros.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing the chicken and vegetables. It’s also helpful to have a separate board for cutting raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
- Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A grill pan or outdoor grill is key to achieving the perfect char on the chicken, which adds a smoky flavor and enhances the overall taste of the gyros. If using an outdoor grill, make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat before cooking.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for turning the chicken on the grill without piercing it, which helps retain the juices and keep the meat tender.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for both the marinade and the tzatziki sauce. Proper measuring tools ensure that the flavors are balanced and consistent.
- Plastic Wrap: Plastic wrap is used to cover the chicken as it marinates in the refrigerator. This helps the chicken absorb the marinade fully and keeps it fresh.
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowls: Separate bowls for the marinade, tzatziki sauce, and vegetables help streamline the preparation process and ensure that the flavors remain distinct.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for emulsifying the marinade ingredients, which helps the flavors penetrate the chicken more effectively.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting, which is important for both the texture and presentation of the gyros. It’s also crucial for safety when working with raw chicken.
- Cutting Board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for prepping the ingredients. It’s important to use a separate board for raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
- Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky, charred flavor that is characteristic of traditional gyros. The high heat of the grill also helps seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Tongs: Tongs allow you to handle the chicken without piercing it, which helps keep the meat juicy. They’re also useful for flipping the chicken on the grill and for handling the pita bread.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Proper measurements ensure that the marinade and tzatziki sauce have the right balance of flavors, which is essential for the overall taste of the gyros.
- Plastic Wrap: Covering the chicken as it marinates helps the flavors from the marinade penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful final dish.
Preparation Tips
To achieve the best results with your Greek Chicken Gyros, follow these preparation tips:
- Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken: While chicken breasts are a popular choice for gyros, chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicier, making them a great option for this dish. If you prefer chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.
- Marinating the Chicken: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours, but overnight is even better. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
Side Dish Recommendations
Pairing your Greek Chicken Gyros with the right side dishes can elevate your meal, adding more texture, flavor, and variety. Here are some classic and complementary side dish options that enhance the Greek dining experience.
Greek Salad
A Greek Salad is a fresh and vibrant accompaniment to your gyros, offering a crunchy contrast to the savory, tender chicken. The combination of crisp vegetables, salty feta cheese, and tangy olives creates a perfect balance that complements the flavors of the gyros.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumber slices, chopped tomato, and red onion.
- Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve alongside the gyros.
Lemon Potatoes
Lemon Potatoes are a traditional Greek side dish that pairs beautifully with gyros. The potatoes are roasted with lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, giving them a bright, zesty flavor that complements the rich, savory chicken.
- Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Roast for 45-50 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the edges.
- Serve hot alongside the gyros.
Hummus and Pita
Hummus and Pita is a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements the Greek Chicken Gyros perfectly. The creamy, garlicky hummus pairs well with the grilled chicken, while the warm pita bread adds a soft, chewy texture.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Warm pita bread, cut into wedges
- Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the hummus with warm pita bread on the side.
Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
Spanakopita is a savory Greek pie made with spinach, feta cheese, and flaky phyllo dough. It’s a rich and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the fresh and tangy flavors of Greek Chicken Gyros.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 sheets phyllo dough
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach mixture, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer 4 sheets of phyllo dough in a greased baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
- Spread the spinach filling evenly over the phyllo, then top with the remaining 4 sheets, brushing each with olive oil.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the phyllo is golden and crisp. Cut into squares and serve alongside the gyros.
Tabbouleh Salad
Tabbouleh Salad is a refreshing Middle Eastern side dish made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Its light and zesty flavors make it a great complement to the rich, savory taste of Greek Chicken Gyros.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the bulgur wheat and boiling water. Cover and let sit for 20 minutes, until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed the water.
- Fluff the bulgur with a fork, then add the chopped parsley, mint, cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted Vegetables are a simple and healthy side dish that pairs well with the bold flavors of Greek Chicken Gyros. The vegetables are seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until tender and caramelized.
- Ingredients:
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve hot or at room temperature alongside the gyros.
Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. They are a classic Greek appetizer that pairs well with gyros, adding a unique texture and flavor to the meal.
- Ingredients:
- 1 jar grape leaves, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly toasted.
- Add the dill, mint, pine nuts (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and the juice of 1 lemon. Simmer until the rice is partially cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Let the rice mixture cool slightly, then spoon a small amount onto each grape leaf and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
- Place the dolmades seam-side down in a large pot, layering them as needed.
- Pour the remaining 1 cup of water and lemon juice over the dolmades. Cover with a lid or a heatproof plate to keep them in place.
- Simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, until the grape leaves are tender. Serve warm or cold with the gyros.
Grilled Halloumi
Grilled Halloumi is a delicious and unique side dish that pairs well with Greek Chicken Gyros. Halloumi is a firm, salty cheese that holds its shape when grilled, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, melty interior.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides.
- Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and drizzle with fresh lemon juice and herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately alongside the gyros.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutritional Breakdown per Serving
Understanding the nutritional content of Greek Chicken Gyros can help you enjoy this dish mindfully:
- Calories: 450-500 per gyro (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 35g (from the chicken and yogurt)
- Total Fat: 20g (from the olive oil and tzatziki sauce)
- Saturated Fat: 6g (mainly from the tzatziki and optional feta cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (from the pita bread and vegetables)
- Fiber: 5g (from the vegetables and whole wheat pita)
- Sugars: 4g (mainly from the vegetables)
- Sodium: 700mg (from the seasoning and feta cheese)
Health Benefits and Considerations
Greek Chicken Gyros offer a balanced meal with a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Here are some key health benefits of the ingredients:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair tissues, supports immune function, and provides sustained energy.
- Greek Yogurt: Rich in probiotics, Greek yogurt promotes gut health, while its high protein content supports muscle maintenance.
- Vegetables: The tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions in the gyros are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Tips for Making the Dish Healthier
If you want to enjoy Greek Chicken Gyros with fewer calories or more nutrients, consider these tips:
- Use Whole Wheat Pita: Opt for whole wheat pita bread to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
- Reduce the Oil: Cut back on the amount of olive oil used in the marinade and tzatziki sauce to lower the overall fat content.
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate extra vegetables like lettuce, bell peppers, or spinach to increase fiber and nutrient density.
- Use Low-Fat Yogurt: Substitute full-fat Greek yogurt with low-fat or non-fat options for the tzatziki sauce.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the gyros. To avoid this, cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Not Marinating the Chicken Long Enough: Marinating the chicken for less than an hour may not allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a less flavorful dish. For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours or overnight.
- Using Store-Bought Tzatziki: While store-bought tzatziki can be convenient, it often lacks the fresh, vibrant flavors of homemade tzatziki. Making your own tzatziki sauce allows you to control the ingredients and ensure maximum freshness.
- Overstuffing the Pita: Overloading the pita with too many fillings can make it difficult to fold and eat, and may cause the pita to tear. To avoid this, layer the ingredients evenly and resist the urge to overfill.
Tips to Perfect the Recipe
- Control the Grill Heat: When grilling the chicken, make sure the heat is medium-high. This allows the chicken to cook through without burning the exterior. If using an outdoor grill, preheat it well before adding the chicken.
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices and herbs to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
- Assemble in Manageable Portions: When assembling the gyros, start with a modest amount of chicken and vegetables. You can always add more if needed, but this approach helps prevent overstuffing and makes the gyros easier to eat.
Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating
Additional Tips for Perfecting Greek Chicken Gyros
To ensure your Greek Chicken Gyros turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a flavorful gyro is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. The chicken should be well-seasoned with herbs and spices to ensure a robust flavor that stands up to the other ingredients.
- Warm the Pita Bread: For the best texture, warm the pita bread on the grill or in a skillet before assembling the gyros. This makes the pita more pliable and enhances the overall eating experience.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly to maintain freshness:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and vegetables separately in airtight containers. The chicken and vegetables will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, while the tzatziki sauce can last up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container with the marinade and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
Reheating the Chicken
To reheat the chicken without drying it out:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the sliced chicken in a baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Reheat the chicken slices for a few minutes on each side until they are warmed through.
- Microwave: If using a microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds) until warmed through.
Notes on Variations
If you’d like to experiment with different flavors or ingredients, consider these variations:
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or pork for a different take on the gyro. Each meat offers a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the traditional Greek seasonings.
- Vegetarian Gyros: Replace the meat with grilled vegetables, falafel, or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian version of the gyro. These options are just as flavorful and satisfying.
- Spicy Tzatziki: Add a kick to your tzatziki sauce by mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño. This adds heat that contrasts nicely with the cool, creamy sauce.
- Add Roasted Peppers: Roasted red peppers can add a sweet and smoky flavor to your gyros, complementing the grilled chicken and creamy tzatziki.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook more quickly, but they can dry out if overcooked. To ensure moist chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before marinating, and grill them just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours. If possible, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
What’s the best way to warm pita bread?
The best way to warm pita bread is on a grill or in a skillet:
- Grill: Place the pita bread directly on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side, just until it’s warmed and has slight grill marks.
- Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm the pita bread for 1-2 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to heat evenly.
You can also warm pita bread in the oven by wrapping it in aluminum foil and heating it at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Can I make the gyros ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of the gyros ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving to keep the pita bread from becoming soggy. You can marinate the chicken the night before, and prepare the tzatziki sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Store everything separately in the refrigerator and assemble the gyros when you’re ready to eat.
How do I make the gyros gluten-free?
To make Greek Chicken Gyros gluten-free, simply substitute the pita bread with gluten-free pita or wrap. You can also serve the gyro ingredients over a bed of lettuce or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Ensure that all other ingredients, including spices and sauces, are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the authentic taste of Greece into your home. With marinated and grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors.
Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these gyros are sure to impress. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, such as using different proteins, adding unique toppings, or making a vegetarian version. The beauty of gyros lies in their adaptability, allowing you to customize them to your taste preferences.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the process of making these delicious Greek Chicken Gyros. They’re a perfect way to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean, right in your own kitchen.
PrintGreek Chicken Gyros
Description
Gyros are a staple of Greek cuisine, traditionally made with lamb or pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Over time, chicken gyros have become a popular variation, offering a leaner alternative that retains the authentic flavors of Greek street food. The combination of marinated meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces wrapped in pita bread is a beloved comfort food in Greece and around the world
Ingredients
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gyros:
- 4–6 pita bread rounds
- 1 cup chopped lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the Gyros:
- Warm the pita bread on the grill or in a skillet.
- Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on each pita.
- Top with sliced chicken, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onions.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Fold the pita around the filling, and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Additional Tips and Notes
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
- Assembling the Gyros: When assembling the gyros, don’t overfill the pita bread. This will make it easier to fold and eat without the filling spilling out.
- Customizing the Tzatziki: Adjust the tzatziki sauce to your taste by adding more garlic for a stronger flavor, more lemon juice for extra tang, or a splash of olive oil for richness.