Easy Greek Chicken Gyro

Greek cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthful dishes. It embodies a philosophy of using natural, wholesome foods that not only tantalize the taste buds but also nourish the body. Among the numerous delightful offerings of this Mediterranean culinary tradition, few dishes have captured the hearts (and appetites) of food lovers quite like gyros. This beloved street food is synonymous with casual dining in Greece, commonly enjoyed by locals and tourists alike as they explore the bustling streets and vibrant markets.

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with our Savory Greek Chicken Gyros featuring a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe encapsulates the essence of Greek cuisine, showcasing marinated chicken cooked to perfection and wrapped in warm pita with fresh vegetables. Discover how to craft this beloved street food at home while savoring every bite of its rich history and wholesome ingredients. Your culinary journey into Greek cooking starts here!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Salt to taste

For Assembling the Gyros:

4 pita breads or flatbreads

1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded

1 tomato, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

- Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.

- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. For an even richer taste, marinate for 2-3 hours.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

- In a medium bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (ensuring excess moisture is squeezed out), minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt to taste.

- Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust lemon or salt as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook the Chicken:

- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

- Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and place in the hot pan.

- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

- Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Assemble the Gyros:

- Gently warm the pita or flatbreads in a dry skillet or in the oven until pliable.

- On each pita, layer a generous amount of shredded romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

- Top with sliced chicken and a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for an additional flavor boost.

Serve:

- Roll up the filled pita, and if you like, wrap it in parchment paper for easy handling. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

Optional Presentation Tips: Serve the gyros on a wooden board, garnished with extra herbs or thin lemon wedges for a fresh touch. Consider a side of extra tzatziki sauce for dipping!