Greek Chicken Gyros

Instructions for Making Greek Chicken Gyros

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Combine the tzatziki ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and garlic. Mix well to combine.
2. Season the sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother sauce, you can blend it slightly with a hand blender, or leave it chunky for more texture.
3. Chill: Refrigerate the tzatziki sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Grill or pan-cook the chicken: Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Rest the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juiciness of the chicken.
3. Slice the chicken: Slice the chicken into thin strips against the grain to make it easy to wrap in the pita.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

1. Warm the pita: Lightly warm the pita breads on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave for a few seconds to make them soft and pliable.
2. Assemble the gyros: On each pita, layer the sliced chicken, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese and parsley or dill on top for extra flavor.
3. Roll and serve: Fold the pita around the fillings, securing the bottom to keep everything inside. If you like, you can wrap the gyro in parchment paper or foil for easy eating.

Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Gyros

• Marinate the chicken longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. If you have the time, marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.
• Make your own tzatziki: While store-bought tzatziki is convenient, homemade tzatziki is far superior. The freshness of the cucumber and dill makes all the difference!
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like olives, avocado, or even a little hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Grill for extra flavor: If you’re grilling the chicken, the smoky flavor from the grill adds an amazing depth to the dish.

Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Gyros

Greek Chicken Gyros are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly customizable. The marinated chicken is flavorful and juicy, while the tzatziki sauce adds a cool, refreshing element that balances the richness of the chicken. Packed with fresh vegetables, these gyros offer a healthier alternative to many fast food options without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, Greek Chicken Gyros are a hit with family and friends alike. They’re easy to prepare, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors that take you on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a satisfying meal, Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to become one of your go-to recipes. So fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and enjoy this Mediterranean delight right at home!