Name: Greek Chicken Gyros
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint); Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita bread rounds; 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes; 1/2 cup sliced red onions; 1/2 cup chopped cucumber; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley

If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, Greek Chicken Gyros are the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender marinated chicken, refreshing tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in warm pita bread. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering, these gyros are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of the marinated chicken, tangy tzatziki sauce, and crisp vegetables creates a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have these gyros ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of gyros ahead of time for a convenient and delicious meal option throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken Marinade:

Chicken breast: Adds protein and a meaty texture to the gyros.
Olive oil: Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds richness.
Lemon juice: Provides a tangy flavor and helps to marinate the chicken.
Garlic: Adds depth of flavor to the marinade.
Dried oregano and ground cumin: Infuse the chicken with Mediterranean spices.
Salt and pepper: Season the chicken to taste.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy and tangy base for the sauce.
Cucumber: Adds freshness and a slight crunch to the sauce.
Garlic: Enhances the flavor of the tzatziki.
Lemon juice: Provides a zesty kick.
Olive oil: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
Fresh dill (or mint): Adds herbaceous notes.
Salt and pepper: Season the tzatziki to taste.

For the Gyros:

Pita bread rounds: Serve as the base for the gyros.
Chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, chopped cucumber: Add freshness and crunch to the gyros.
Crumbled feta cheese: Adds a salty and creamy element.
Chopped parsley: Garnish the gyros with fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the chicken breast, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill (or mint), salt, and pepper to make the tzatziki sauce.
Grill the marinated chicken until cooked through.
Assemble the gyros by placing the grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, chopped cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley on a pita bread round.
Serve and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Use Greek pita bread for an authentic touch.
Substitute lamb or beef for the chicken for a different twist.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Squeeze excess moisture from the grated cucumber to prevent the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Warm the pita bread before assembling the gyros for a softer texture.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Greek Chicken Gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple couscous salad. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover gyros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the gyros in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use store-bought tzatziki sauce for convenience, but homemade sauce will provide fresher flavors.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
Grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor to the gyros, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I make the gyros vegetarian by omitting the chicken?
Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian version of these gyros by substituting the chicken with grilled veggies or falafel.
Can I freeze the gyros for later?
It’s best to freeze the components separately and assemble the gyros fresh for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion:

Greek Chicken Gyros are a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick and flavorful meal or impressing guests at a gathering, these gyros are a go-to option. Try this recipe and share your feedback with us—it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.