Introduction
Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and healthy Mediterranean dish that brings together tender marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in a warm pita. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. The marinated chicken thighs provide a juicy and flavorful base, while the homemade tzatziki adds a refreshing tang. These gyros are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit everyone’s taste.
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
Instructions
- 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:
- Add a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on top of the fillings.
- Serve:
- Fold the pitas over the fillings or roll them up. Serve immediately while warm.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 27g
Serving
Greek Chicken Gyros are best served warm, straight from the grill or skillet. They are perfect for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a fun meal for a gathering. Pair them with a side of Greek salad or some roasted potatoes for a complete Mediterranean feast. These gyros are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings, such as olives, feta cheese, or extra veggies.
Notes
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Ensure the cucumber is well-drained to avoid a watery sauce. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible after grating.
- Grilling Tips: If grilling, use medium-high heat to achieve a nice char on the chicken without burning it.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before assembling the gyros.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster.
What if I don’t have fresh dill for the tzatziki sauce? You can substitute fresh dill with dried dill. Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh dill.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time? Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to let the flavors meld.
Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt for the tzatziki sauce? Greek yogurt is preferred for its thick and creamy texture. If using regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it? Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
What other toppings can I add to the gyros? Feel free to add toppings like olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, or hot sauce to customize your gyros.
How do I prevent the pita from tearing when folding? Warm the pita bread slightly before folding. This makes it more pliable and less likely to tear.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
What type of pita bread is best for gyros? Look for soft, pocketless pita bread. These are more pliable and hold the fillings better without breaking.
How do I keep the gyros warm for serving? If preparing gyros for a crowd, keep the assembled gyros warm in a low oven (about 200°F or 93°C) covered with foil until ready to serve.
In conclusion, Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their flavorful marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce, these gyros are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Mediterranean dish with your family and friends!