Introduction
Indulge in the savory and delicious flavors of Greek Chicken Gyros, a popular dish known for its tender marinated chicken, refreshing tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita bread. This recipe brings a taste of Greece right to your kitchen!
Why Make This Recipe
Greek Chicken Gyros are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, and crunchy vegetables creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.
How to Make Greek Chicken Gyros
Ingredients
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For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For Serving:
- 4 pita breads
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh lettuce
Directions
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Marinate the Chicken
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken thighs with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- Grate and drain the cucumber.
- Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
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Cook the Chicken
- Preheat grill or skillet.
- Cook marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
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Assemble the Gyros
- Warm pita breads and place sliced chicken on top.
- Add tomato, red onion, lettuce, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
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Serve
- Enjoy the Greek Chicken Gyros while warm and fresh!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Gyros
Serve the gyros on a plate or wrap them in foil for a delicious meal on the go. Pair with a side of Greek salad or fries for a complete dining experience.
How to Store Greek Chicken Gyros
Store any leftover gyros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pita bread and chicken separately to maintain freshness.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Gyros
- Ensure the chicken is fully marinated for maximum flavor.
- Squeeze excess liquid from the cucumber to avoid a watery tzatziki sauce.
- Customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences, such as adding olives or feta cheese.
Variation
For a lighter alternative, use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs. You can also substitute the pita bread with lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
FAQs
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Can I use yogurt other than Greek yogurt for the tzatziki sauce?
- Greek yogurt is recommended for its thick and creamy consistency, but you can use regular yogurt as a substitute.
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How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian gyro option.
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Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use?
- Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.