Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable recipe for Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish combines aromatic marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki, and an array of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in warm pita bread. The appeal of this Greek street food classic lies not only in its ease of preparation but also in its ability to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dining table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that bursts with flavor and leaves everyone craving more.
This recipe is perfect for those who love a mix of textures and flavors. The chicken is marinated to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor, while the tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing creaminess that balances the dish perfectly. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers health benefits thanks to fresh vegetables and lean protein. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade Greek treasure!
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Delight
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of marinated chicken and homemade tzatziki creates an unforgettable flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean proteins and fresh veggies, this recipe is healthy and satisfying.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the toppings to suit your taste preferences!
- Fun to Assemble: Like all great street food, part of the joy is in wrapping your own gyro!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the culinary adventure of making these Greek Chicken Gyros, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by ensuring you have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. For marinating the chicken, a mixing bowl and a whisk or spoon will work perfectly. You’ll also want to have a grill pan or skillet on hand to cook the chicken—this is key for achieving that perfect golden-brown sear.
To make the tzatziki, prepare a separate mixing bowl, and consider using a box grater for the cucumber. It’s also helpful to have measuring spoons and a juicer for extracting juice from lemons easily. Finally, have a clean workspace to assemble the gyros. Lay out your pita bread, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful, hands-on dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4–6 pita bread rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh lettuce leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is the key to infusing the chicken with flavor and ensuring it remains tender during cooking. Add in the chicken—either thighs or breasts—and coat each piece thoroughly in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour, but for the best results, allow it to marinate overnight. This step is crucial as it enhances flavors and makes the chicken juicy and delicious.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki
While the chicken marinates, it’s the perfect time to whip up your tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt with the grated cucumber (make sure it’s thoroughly squeezed to remove excess moisture), minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until everything is nicely blended. Let the tzatziki chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld while you continue with the recipe. This refreshing sauce can also be prepared a day in advance, so feel free to get a head start.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once your marination is complete, it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to achieve a nice sear. Place the marinated chicken on the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. As you cook, resist the urge to move the chicken around too much, as this will decrease the chances of getting those beautiful grill marks. Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite remains moist. After resting, slice the chicken into strips for easy assembly.
Step 4: Warm the Pitas
To bring your gyros together, warm the pita bread. Place pitas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until they are soft and pliable. Keeping them wrapped in a clean towel after cooking will help retain their warmth for serving. Warm pita enhances the overall experience by providing a lovely texture that complements the other components.
Step 5: Assemble the Gyros
Now for the fun part—assembling your gyros! Start by generously spreading tzatziki sauce on each pita round, allowing for that creamy goodness to be the star. Layer on the sliced chicken, followed by cherry tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese. Feel free to be creative and personalize your gyro with the toppings you love most. You can either wrap the pita around the fillings or serve them open-faced for a laid-back presentation. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even grilled shrimp for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, olives, or spinach for additional color and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices in the marinade like coriander or chili flakes for a spicy twist.
Cooking Notes
- Chilling the tzatziki for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves instead of pita.
- Keep any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted or grilled vegetables for added color.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the marinade and tzatziki.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the flavors, so don’t hesitate to use them generously.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; allow the chicken to sear and develop a nice crust for maximum flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (not including marinating)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option; just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed. Just keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly.
Can the tzatziki be made ahead of time?
Absolutely, tzatziki can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for optimal flavor development.
Are gyros easy to prepare?
Yes! With just a bit of preparation, Greek Chicken Gyros are simple to make and are perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is not just a meal; it’s a delicious celebration of Mediterranean flavors that you can enjoy any time. This recipe highlights vibrant ingredients and offers an opportunity to customize it to suit your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again. We invite you to share your versions and thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy your culinary journey with these tasty gyros!
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Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable recipe for Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4–6 pita bread rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add in the chicken and coat each piece thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
- Mix Greek yogurt with the grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Chill the tzatziki in the refrigerator while the chicken marinates.
- Cook the marinated chicken in a grill pan over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest and then slice into strips.
- Warm the pita bread in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Spread tzatziki on each pita, layer with chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and feta, and serve!
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use high-quality olive oil for the marinade and tzatziki.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 35 g