Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken, warm pita bread, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Greece to your kitchen, making it perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. The chicken is infused with Mediterranean spices, grilled to perfection, and served with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gyros Assembly:
- 6 pita flatbreads
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Step 4: Warm the Pita Bread
Place the pita flatbreads on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side, until warm and slightly toasted.
Step 5: Assemble the Gyros
Lay a warm pita flat and add chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and grilled chicken. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Fold the pita around the fillings and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros with a side of Greek salad or roasted potatoes.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of hummus and olives for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Serve with roasted potatoes or rice for a heartier dish.
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before grilling.
Final Thoughts
Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of Greece to your home. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual meal or a special occasion, they are sure to impress with their bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Would you like variations or additional seasoning ideas? 😊