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

Scale

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.