Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your table.
Marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, the chicken thighs become tender and flavorful, perfect for wrapping in warm pita bread.
Paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made from creamy Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and fresh dill, these gyros are a delightful combination of taste and texture.
Loaded with fresh tomatoes, crisp red onions, and lettuce, they offer a balanced and wholesome option for lunch or dinner.
Whether enjoyed at home or for a casual gathering, these gyros are sure to impress!
Greek Chicken Gyros
Ingredients:
For the chicken marinade:
1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
For serving:
4 pita breads
1 tomato, sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh lettuce
Directions:
Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken thighs and make sure they are well coated with the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Tzatziki sauce:
In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
Cover and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
Cook the chicken:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
Assemble the gyros:
Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet. Place slices of cooked chicken on each pita, followed by slices of tomato, red onion, and a handful of lettuce.
Top each gyro with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Serve:
Fold the pitas over the fillings or roll them up. Serve immediately while warm.
Variations:
Marinades: Experiment with different marinades for the chicken.
A classic Greek marinade includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can also add yogurt for extra tenderness.
Spices: Play around with spices like paprika, cumin, coriander, or even a hint of cinnamon for depth of flavor.
Vegetables: While traditional gyros typically include tomatoes, onions, and sometimes lettuce, you can add other veggies like cucumber slices, bell peppers, or even pickled vegetables for extra tanginess.
Cheese: Consider adding crumbled feta cheese or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for added creaminess.
Wraps: Instead of traditional pita bread, use wraps like tortillas or lavash bread for a different texture.
Tips:
Thinly Sliced Chicken: For the juiciest gyros, slice the chicken thinly before cooking. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
Grill or Skillet: Grill the chicken for an authentic smoky flavor, or use a skillet if you prefer cooking indoors.
Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
Warm Pita: Warm the pita bread before assembling the gyros.
This makes them more pliable and enhances the overall experience.
Assembly: Layer the ingredients evenly across the pita bread or wrap for balanced flavors in each bite. Start with the chicken, then add vegetables and sauces.
Sauce Balance: Adjust the amount of tzatziki sauce or any other dressing to your liking. Too much can overpower the other flavors.
Garnishes: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
By experimenting with these variations and following these tips, you can create delicious Greek Chicken Gyros tailored to your taste preferences!
To store Greek Chicken Gyros effectively, start by cooling any leftover marinated or cooked chicken and transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the chicken, use a freezer-safe bag or container and consume it within 2-3 months.
Store the tzatziki sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days; remember to stir it well before use.
Keep pita bread sealed at room temperature for a couple of days, or refrigerate or freeze for longer storage.
Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce should also be stored in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to enjoy your gyros, simply reheat the chicken and assemble with the fresh veggies and tzatziki for a delicious meal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal per serving | Servings: 4