Transport your taste buds to the sunny Mediterranean with these flavorful Greek Chicken Gyros! This dish combines tender marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The chicken marinade and tzatziki sauce bring authentic Greek flavors to your plate.
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich ingredients.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this fun and delicious meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for quick assembly later.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
A pinch of salt and pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon dill (fresh or dried)
A pinch of salt
For the Gyros
4 pita breads
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, sliced thin
Optional: crumbled feta cheese
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken strips, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cook the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Step 4: Assemble the Gyros
- Warm the pita breads.
- Spread tzatziki sauce over each pita.
- Add cooked chicken strips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions.
- Optionally, top with crumbled feta cheese.
Step 5: Serve
- Fold each pita into a wrap and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4 gyros
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marination Time: 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken marinade.
- Low-Carb: Swap pita bread for lettuce wraps.
- Herb Substitutions: Use parsley or mint instead of dill in the tzatziki.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave before assembling the gyros.
- Tzatziki: Keep the sauce refrigerated and consume within 3 days for the best flavor.
FAQs
How do I make the chicken more tender?
Marinating in yogurt helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the chicken.
What type of pita bread works best?
Soft, fluffy pita bread or flatbread works best for easy folding.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time for quicker assembly.
Can I freeze the chicken?
You can freeze marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
What’s the best way to squeeze water out of the cucumber?
Place grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze tightly.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely, but homemade tzatziki has a fresher and more personalized flavor.
How do I keep the gyros from falling apart?
Wrap the gyros tightly in parchment paper or foil to keep them intact while eating.
What other toppings can I use?
Try roasted peppers, olives, or a drizzle of hummus for added variety.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, lamb, beef, or shrimp are excellent alternatives to chicken.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki are a delicious and versatile dish that brings a taste of Greece to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and again.