Easy and Delicious Chicken Gyros Recipe

When you sink your teeth into a warm, fluffy pita stuffed with juicy marinated chicken gyros, it’s like a flavor explosion party in your mouth.

tender strips of perfectly seasoned chicken dancing around with crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a drizzle of tangy tzatziki sauce. It’s a Mediterranean fiesta that not only delights your taste buds but also ignites your senses with every bite.

I remember the first time I attempted to make chicken gyros; my kitchen looked like a scene from a cooking show gone wrong. Spice jars were scattered everywhere, and let’s just say my tzatziki sauce was more “sauce” than “tzatziki.” But hey, that’s how culinary adventures begin! Whether you’re serving these up for a casual dinner or impressing friends at a backyard barbecue, this dish is always a winner.

Last summer, my family devoured these chicken gyros so fast; I barely had time to take photos!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I always use thighs for their juicy tenderness and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with spices.
• Greek Yogurt: Choose plain yogurt for the best base for tzatziki; its creaminess is unmatched.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential; it adds an aromatic punch that elevates everything.
• Dried Oregano: This herb is crucial; its earthy notes are classic in Greek cuisine.
• Pita Bread: Opt for soft pita pockets that can hold all those delicious fillings without falling apart.
• Fresh Vegetables: Crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes add texture and freshness to balance out the savory flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and enhances all flavors beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it brings depth to your marinade and dressing.
• Cucumber: Grated cucumber is key in tzatziki; it provides coolness and crunch.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring out the best in each ingredient.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare Tzatziki Sauce: Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture. In another bowl, mix cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic (yes again), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Cook the Chicken Gyros: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove marinated chicken from the bowl and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6-8 minutes per side). The aroma will be amazing!

Warm Pita Bread: While the chicken cooks away happily on the grill or skillet, warm your pita bread in foil over low heat or directly on the grill briefly until pliable.

Assemble Your Gyros: Slice cooked chicken into strips—these beauties are now ready! Layer sliced chicken into warm pita bread alongside fresh lettuce and tomatoes.

Add Toppings & Serve!: Generously drizzle tzatziki sauce over filled pitas. Don’t be shy here; we want flavor galore! Serve immediately while still warm for maximum enjoyment.

Enjoy creating these tasty Chicken Gyros that will surely become your new favorite go-to meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken, allowing flavors to soak in while prepping other components. Grill or sauté the chicken until golden brown, then assemble your gyros with fresh toppings and warm pita.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional toppings like tzatziki for hummus or add roasted vegetables for extra flavor. Experimenting with spices can also enhance your chicken gyros to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet and refresh the pita bread in a toaster.

Memories of my first attempt at making chicken gyros still make me chuckle; I forgot the pita and served them on toast instead! Everyone loved it and still asks for “Gyro Toast.”

FAQ

What is the best way to marinate chicken for gyros?

The ideal marinade includes yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, enhancing flavor and tenderness while infusing moisture into the chicken.

Can I use different meats for gyros?

Absolutely! Chicken isn’t the only option; try lamb, beef, or even grilled vegetables for a delightful vegetarian twist.

How do I make homemade tzatziki sauce?

Combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper for a refreshing tzatziki perfect with chicken gyros.

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Chicken Gyros

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Savor the deliciousness of homemade chicken gyros filled with juicy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for any meal or gathering!

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Total Time: 46 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup grated cucumber

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grate cucumber and remove excess moisture. Combine with Greek yogurt, minced garlic (to taste), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Briefly heat pita bread on the grill or in foil until pliable.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips and layer into warm pita with lettuce and tomatoes. Top generously with tzatziki sauce.

Notes

• For deeper flavor, marinate chicken overnight.
•  Feel free to substitute traditional toppings with hummus or roasted veggies.
•  Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 gyro (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg