Greek Chicken Gyros

Instructions for Greek Chicken Gyros

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using breasts, you can either keep them whole or slice them into strips for easier grilling or pan-frying. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic.

Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the sauce to let the flavors meld.

3. Cook the Chicken:

You have two options for cooking the marinated chicken:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
• Pan-frying: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and rest before slicing.

4. Assemble the Gyros:

Warm the pita bread rounds in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and pliable. Lay each pita flat on a plate.

Begin by layering the cooked chicken in the center of each pita, then top with diced tomato, cucumber slices, and red onion. Add a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce on top, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Wrap the sides of the pita around the filling, folding it into a handheld pocket. Serve your Greek chicken gyros immediately, with extra tzatziki on the side for dipping. You can also pair the gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or crispy fries for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Gyros:

• Use chicken thighs: For a juicier and more flavorful gyro, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They hold up better to grilling or pan-frying and are more tender.
• Marinate longer: If you have the time, marinate the chicken for several hours, or even overnight. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat, resulting in a tastier gyro.
• Customize the toppings: While the classic gyros include tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, feel free to get creative. You can add olives, feta cheese, or even pickled red onions for extra zing.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe:

• Deliciously Versatile: This recipe allows for customization based on your tastes, from the level of spiciness to the choice of toppings.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and steps, it’s a straightforward recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of juicy, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki makes each bite a burst of Mediterranean flavor.

Whether you’re making this recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends with a Mediterranean-inspired feast, these Greek chicken gyros are sure to impress. Enjoy the authentic taste of Greece in the comfort of your own home!