Greek Chicken Gyros – LINARECIPES BLOG

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These Greek Chicken Gyros are a delightful explosion of Mediterranean flavors, all wrapped up in a warm, soft pita. The tender, marinated chicken is bursting with aromatic herbs and spices, perfectly complemented by the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. The fresh crunch of the vegetables and the salty tang of feta cheese add layers of texture and taste that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a flavorful lunch, or even a casual gathering with friends. You’ll love the vibrant, satisfying experience of biting into a homemade gyro that rivals your favorite Greek restaurant!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced (about ¼ inch thick) – Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and quicker cooking.
3 tablespoons olive oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chicken.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is essential for its pungent, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano is a classic Greek herb that provides an earthy, slightly peppery flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – Cumin adds warmth and depth to the marinade.
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is crucial; don’t be afraid to be generous.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt – Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the creamiest texture and richest flavor. You can use low-fat, but the texture won’t be as thick.
1/2 cucumber, grated and drained – English cucumbers are preferred as they have fewer seeds. Draining the cucumber is crucial to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
1 clove garlic, minced – A small amount of garlic adds a subtle bite to the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the yogurt.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint) – Fresh dill provides a classic tzatziki flavor, but fresh mint can be used for a refreshing variation.
Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your preference; a pinch of sugar can also enhance the flavors.

For the Gyros:

4 pita bread rounds – Look for good quality, soft pita bread. You can find them in most grocery stores or Middle Eastern markets.
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes – Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well.
1/2 cup sliced red onions – Red onions provide a sharp, slightly sweet flavor. Soak them in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow their bite.
1/2 cup chopped cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – Greek feta is preferred for its authentic flavor. Look for feta packed in brine for the best quality.
1/4 cup chopped parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Preparation:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. Overnight marinating is highly recommended.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

Grate the cucumber using a box grater.
Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This step is essential to prevent the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery.
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill.
Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling the sauce allows the flavors to develop and intensifies the taste.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
Add the chicken to the hot skillet or grill pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros:

Warm the pita bread rounds. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Warming the pita bread makes it more pliable and easier to fold.
Lay each pita bread round flat on a clean surface.
Place a generous portion of the sliced cooked chicken in the center of each pita.
Top with chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, chopped cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.

Step 5: Add Tzatziki Sauce:

Spoon or drizzle the prepared tzatziki sauce generously over the top of the filling in each pita.

Step 6: Wrap and Serve:

Fold the pita bread around the filling to create a wrap, tucking in the sides as you go.
Serve immediately, while the gyros are still warm, for the best flavor and texture.

COOKING Rating:

Easy to Medium (depending on your comfort level with grilling or pan-frying chicken)

Serving Suggestions:

Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Serve with a side of Greek salad (Horiatiki) for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Offer extra tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
Consider adding a side of roasted lemon potatoes for a heartier meal.

Tips:

Marinate for flavor: Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. The longer you marinate, the better.
Drain the cucumber: Ensure you thoroughly drain the grated cucumber for the tzatziki sauce to prevent a watery consistency.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Warm the pita bread: Warming the pita bread makes it more pliable and enhances the overall eating experience.
Customize your toppings: Feel free to add or subtract toppings based on your preferences. Olives, bell peppers, or banana peppers would be great additions.
Make ahead: The marinade and tzatziki sauce can be prepared a day in advance to save time.

Prep Time:

20 minutes (plus marinating time)

Cook Time:

15-20 minutes

Total Time:

35-40 minutes (plus marinating time)

Nutritional Information:

(Approximate values per serving, without considering specific brands or variations)

Calories: 550-650
Protein: 40-50g
Sodium: 600-800mg

Conclusion

This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe offers a delightful and authentic taste of the Mediterranean. With its flavorful marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh toppings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy the taste of Greece! Kali Orexi! (Good Appetite!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful gyro due to their higher fat content. Be sure to trim any excess fat before marinating. Cook time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

Q2: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce?

A: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but be sure to strain it through cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess liquid and achieve a thicker consistency. Sour cream can also be used as a substitute, but it will have a tangier flavor.

Q3: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Easily adapt this recipe by substituting the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, falafel, or marinated and grilled vegetables like eggplant and zucchini. The rest of the recipe can remain the same for a delicious vegetarian gyro.

Q4: Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, the tzatziki sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, but be aware that the sauce may become slightly thinner over time.

Q5: What’s the best way to warm the pita bread?

A: There are several ways to warm pita bread. You can quickly heat it in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap the pita bread in foil and heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. You can also microwave it briefly, but be careful not to overcook it, or it will become tough.