Greek Chicken Gyro

Greek Chicken Gyro Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros are a flavorful and satisfying Mediterranean dish that brings together marinated chicken, warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining guests, this dish captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its blend of herbs, citrus, and garlic. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or a seasoned home chef, making chicken gyros from scratch can be a rewarding culinary experience. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a delicious and authentic Greek Chicken Gyro at home.

Ingredients

Here is a list of ingredients you will need to prepare the Greek Chicken Gyro. This recipe serves approximately four people.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Step 1 Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients until well blended.

Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring that each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the contents to a resealable plastic bag. Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Step 2 Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, it’s a great time to prepare the tzatziki sauce. Start by grating half of a cucumber using a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Removing the moisture is important to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until you’re ready to assemble the gyros. This will allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3 Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has finished marinating, it’s time to cook it. You can use a grill, grill pan, or skillet depending on your preference and available equipment. If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. For stovetop cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken pieces on the hot grill or skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The chicken should be nicely charred on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

After cooking, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for easier assembly.

Step 4 Warm the Pita Bread

To enhance the flavor and texture of the gyros, warm the pita bread before assembling. You can do this by placing each pita on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. Alternatively, wrap the pitas in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes.

Warming the bread makes it more pliable, which helps when wrapping the gyros. It also brings out the natural aroma of the pita, adding to the overall taste experience.

Step 5 Prepare the Filling Ingredients

While the pita bread is warming, prepare the rest of the filling ingredients. Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into thin strips. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and crumble the feta cheese if using. Arrange all the fillings in separate bowls for easy access during assembly.

Having all components ready before you start assembling will streamline the process and ensure each gyro is fresh and flavorful when served.

Step 6 Assemble the Chicken Gyros

Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the gyros. Start by laying a warm pita flat on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce in the center of the pita. Add a handful of romaine lettuce, followed by sliced grilled chicken, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if desired.

To fold the gyro, bring the sides of the pita together and wrap it in parchment paper or foil to hold its shape. This makes it easier to eat and gives it the classic gyro appearance. Repeat the process with the remaining pitas and fillings.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Gyros are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the meal with a few complementary side dishes. Consider serving them with a side of lemon roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or a small bowl of hummus and pita chips. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon also pairs beautifully with the fresh, tangy flavors of the gyro.

If you’re hosting guests, you can set up a build-your-own gyro station. Arrange all the ingredients buffet-style and let everyone customize their own gyro. This not only makes the meal interactive and fun but also allows guests to tailor the dish to their dietary preferences.

Tips for Success

For optimal flavor and texture, try to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours. The yogurt and lemon juice help tenderize the meat while the spices add depth. Using chicken thighs yields juicier results, but chicken breasts are a leaner option that also work well.

When making tzatziki, take the time to properly drain the cucumber. Excess moisture can dilute the sauce and affect its consistency. If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill is a suitable alternative, though fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor.

Don’t skip warming the pita. A warm, soft pita wraps better and enhances the overall eating experience. If you prefer a crispier texture, lightly toast the pita for added crunch.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover gyro components should be stored separately for best results. Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Tzatziki sauce can be kept in the fridge for about three days. Fresh vegetables should be stored in separate containers to maintain their texture.

To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Warm the pita as described earlier and reassemble the gyro with fresh toppings for a quick and satisfying meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This Greek Chicken Gyro recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or seasoned chickpeas. You can also use lamb or beef if you prefer a different protein.

For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and toppings over a bed of greens instead of wrapping them in pita. You can also use lettuce leaves as wraps for a light and refreshing twist.

If you’re short on time, use store-bought tzatziki sauce. While homemade offers the best flavor, premade versions can be convenient and still delicious. Similarly, pre-marinated chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used in a pinch, though freshly grilled chicken provides the most authentic taste.

Why This Dish Stands Out

Greek Chicken Gyros are more than just a sandwich—they’re a celebration of flavor and tradition. The combination of tangy tzatziki, tender seasoned chicken, and fresh vegetables creates a balance that is both refreshing and satisfying. The use of simple, wholesome ingredients makes this dish both nutritious and appetizing.

Another great aspect of gyros is their portability. Wrapped in parchment or foil, they make an excellent meal on the go. This makes them a great choice for picnics, road trips, or outdoor gatherings.

The vibrant colors and aromas of this dish also make it visually appealing, adding to the overall dining experience. Whether served casually or as part of a Mediterranean-themed meal, Greek Chicken Gyros are sure to impress.

Enjoy the Flavors of Greece

Bringing the flavors of Greece to your kitchen is easier than you might expect. With a bit of preparation and the right ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s full of flavor and character. This Greek Chicken Gyro recipe is a testament to the simplicity and richness of Mediterranean cuisine, offering a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in a fresh and satisfying format.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these gyros are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and celebrate the timeless appeal of Greek cooking.