Introduction to Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe
When you're craving something that bursts with flavor while being easy to prepare, the Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is an absolute must-try! This dish encapsulates the vibrant essence of Greek cuisine, combining succulent chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices with fresh, aromatic toppings. Perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests, gyros offer a delightful social dining experience—just lay out the ingredients and let everyone create their masterpiece!
Why Greek Chicken Gyros?
The beauty of Greek chicken gyros lies in the marinade. With ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and fragrant oregano, your chicken thighs will be bursting with flavor. Plus, making gyros is a fun way to customize your meal. Want extra tzatziki? Go for it! Prefer loading up on veggies? You do you! It's this versatility that makes it a fantastic option for both solo meals and larger gatherings.
Also, if you're curious about Mediterranean diets, this dish checks several boxes—high protein, fresh ingredients, and healthy fats. So, why not dive into this delicious experience? Your taste buds will thank you! For a step-by-step guide to making your gyros, check out the full recipe below.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Gyros
Chicken
For this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe, opt for 2 lb (1 kg) of boneless, skinless chicken thigh fillets. They stay tender and juicy while cooking, delivering that authentic mouthfeel you crave in gyros.
Marinade
The marinade is key to infusing flavor! You'll need:
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (about 3 tsp)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoon Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat for richness)
- 1 ½ tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Plenty of black pepper
Tzatziki
Tzatziki is the wonderful cooling sauce that brings everything together. For a fresh batch, gather:
- 2 cucumbers (grated and drained)
- 1 ¼ cups Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 minced garlic clove
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Salad
Keep it simple yet flavorful with a salad consisting of:
- 3 diced tomatoes, deseeded
- 3 diced cucumbers
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- Optional: ¼ cup fresh parsley for a pop of color
- Season with salt and pepper
To Serve
It's all about the presentation! Serve your gyros wrapped in 4 to 6 warmed pita or flatbreads for a delicious DIY experience. Let everyone build their unique creation, and enjoy a meal that’s both fun and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Greek Chicken Gyros
Making Greek Chicken Gyros at home is easier than you might think! Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious meal that will impress your friends and family—or just treat yourself to a tasty dinner. Let’s dive into the Greek Chicken Gyros recipe!
Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade. In a* ziplock bag,* combine:
- 3 large minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1.5 tablespoons dried oregano
- A teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper
Massage the bag to mix the ingredients well, then add your 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Seal the bag and ensure the chicken is well-coated. For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 3 hours, or even longer if you can manage—it helps those flavors really penetrate!
Make the Tzatziki
Next up, let's whip up the tzatziki, the star of any Greek gyro. Take two cucumbers and slice them in half, scooping out the seeds with a teaspoon. Coarsely grate them and then wrap them in paper towels to squeeze out any excess liquid.
In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber with:
- 1 ¼ cups Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (more, if you like it richer)
- 1 minced garlic clove
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
Mix everything together and set it aside for at least 20 minutes. This waiting period lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Prepare the Salad
While the chicken marinates and the tzatziki flavors develop, make the salad. In a bowl, combine:
- 3 diced tomatoes (deseeded)
- 3 diced cucumbers
- ½ finely chopped red Spanish onion
- An optional ¼ cup of fresh parsley leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
This fresh salad will add a delightful crunch to your gyros and balance the richness of the meat and tzatziki!
Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time for some action! Heat your grill or frying pan over medium-high heat and brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook the marinated chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of oregano and garlic will be irresistible! Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Gyros
This is where the fun begins! If your chicken thighs are large, slice them into strips. Warm up some pita or flatbreads and lay one on a piece of parchment paper.
Fill the center with the prepared salad, then top with the sliced chicken and a generous dollop of tzatziki.
Wrap it all up tightly using the parchment to hold it together, and you’ve got a delicious Greek Chicken Gyro!
Gather everyone around the table and let them assemble their own; it’s a fun way to enjoy this meal together.
Now that you know how to prepare this delightful dish, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros!
Variations on Greek Chicken Gyros
Spicy Greek Chicken Gyros
If you’re craving a kick in your gyro, try adding some chili flakes or harissa to your marinade for those delightful Spicy Greek Chicken Gyros. This fiery twist complements the traditional flavors beautifully, giving your dish an electrifying edge. You can also heat your tzatziki sauce with a bit of sriracha for an extra zing!
Vegetarian Gyros Option
Don’t fret if you’re looking for a meat-free version of this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe. Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or marinated mushrooms. Both options bring a hearty texture and soak up the marinade’s amazing flavor. Serve with your homemade tzatziki, and you have a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for entertaining or a casual weeknight dinner. For more vegetarian ideas, check out EatingWell for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Greek Chicken Gyros
If you're diving into this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe, here are some friendly tips to elevate your dish!
-
Marinade Time: For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate for at least 3 hours—or overnight if you can! This step allows the garlic and oregano to work their magic.
-
Resting the Chicken: After cooking, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
-
Warm Pitas: Lightly toast or warm your pita breads for better pliability.
Experiment with the quantities of Tzatziki and salad ingredients. Don’t forget to check out additional tips on making Tzatziki from reputable sources like BBC Good Food for delightful variations!
Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Gyros
Family Style
Gather your loved ones for a delightful family-style feast! Serve your homemade Greek Chicken Gyros on a large platter alongside bowls of vibrant, fresh salad and creamy tzatziki. Warm multiple pita breads and set it all out for a fun, interactive meal—this way, everyone can create their perfect wrap. It’s a delicious way to share the joy of cooking together, allowing everyone to customize their gyro just the way they like it!
Individual Wraps
For a more individualized approach, prepare Greek Chicken Gyros as personalized wraps. Lay out the ingredients buffet-style—chicken, salad, tzatziki, and pita—so each guest can craft their own. This method adds a special touch to gatherings and ensures everyone enjoys their wrap exactly how they want. Instead of pitas, you can also offer lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative! Consider checking out Mediterranean diet sources to explore even more engaging serving ideas.
Time Breakdown for Greek Chicken Gyros
Preparation Time
Get started with your Greek Chicken Gyros recipe by setting aside about 20 minutes for the preparation. This includes chopping veggies, mixing the marinade, and getting everything ready for cooking.
Cooking Time
When it's time to grill, you’ll need an additional 6 minutes to cook the chicken to golden perfection. Keep an eye on it to achieve that beautiful char!
Marinating Time
For optimal flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 3 hours—but if you can, aim for 12 hours overnight. This helps soak up the amazing flavors of the marinade, especially the garlic and oregano.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 26 minutes of active cooking time, not including marinating. This makes Greek Chicken Gyros an easier dish to prepare than you might think, especially considering how impressive it is for dinner or entertaining guests!
Want to dive deeper into the recipe? Check out RecipeTin Eats for more tips and tricks!
Nutritional Facts for Greek Chicken Gyros
When indulging in this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe, it's helpful to know what you’re fueling your body with! Here’s a quick glance at the vital stats:
Calories
Each serving of the gyros packs approximately 641 calories, making it a satisfying option for dinner or lunch.
Protein
With nearly 65 grams of protein per serving, these gyros are perfect for post-workout recovery or maintaining muscle health.
Sodium
It’s important to note the sodium content, which sits around 1297 mg. Moderation is key, especially if you're watching your intake!
For further insights into balanced eating, check resources like the American Heart Association for tips on managing sodium. Enjoy your gyros with mindful awareness of your nutritional goals!
FAQs about Greek Chicken Gyros
What can I substitute for chicken?
If you're looking to switch things up with your Greek Chicken Gyros recipe, there are plenty of tasty alternatives! You can try using turkey thighs for a lighter option, or even swap in beef strips for a heartier flavor. For a vegetarian twist, grilled halloumi or marinated tofu can provide a delightful texture and taste. Just keep in mind, marinating times might vary, so adjust accordingly.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Greek Chicken Gyros can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’ve got excess chicken, it's great to know that you can also freeze the cooked pieces. They’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to 2 months—just make sure to let them thaw completely before reheating!
Can I make the Tzatziki ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Tzatziki sauce can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container, and it'll be ready to complement your Greek Chicken Gyros when it's time to dig in. For more tips on making the perfect Tzatziki, check out this guide.
Conclusion on Greek Chicken Gyros
In summary, this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is a delightful way to bring the tastes of Greece to your table. With tender, marinated chicken and a flavorful tzatziki, these gyros are perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and share the joy of cooking!
Greek Chicken Gyros recipe
Equipment
- Grill
- Fry pan
- Box grater
- ziplock bag
- Bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lb chicken thigh fillets boneless skinless
Marinade
- 3 large garlic cloves minced (~ 3 tsp)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or red wine or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoon Greek yogurt preferably full fat
- 1.5 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- black pepper
Tzatziki
- 1.25 cups Greek yoghurt preferably full fat
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or more if you want richer
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- black pepper
Salad
- 3 cucumbers diced
- 0.5 red spanish onion peeled and finely chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley leaves optional
- salt
- pepper
To Serve
- 4 to 6 pita breads or flat breads
Instructions
Marinating
- Place the Marinade ingredients in a ziplock bag and massage to mix. Add the chicken into the ziplock bag and massage to cover all the chicken in the Marinade. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably 3 hours, ideally 12 hours and no longer than 24 hours.
Making Tzatziki
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scrape the watery seeds out. Coarsely grate the cucumber using a box grater. Then wrap in paper towels or a tea towel and squeeze to remove excess liquid.
- Place cucumber in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients then mix to combine. Set aside for at least 20 minutes for the flavours to meld.
Preparing Salad
- Combine ingredients in a bowl.
Cooking Chicken
- Brush the outdoor grill with oil, then preheat on medium high. Or heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a fry pan over medium high heat.
- Remove chicken from Marinade. Cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (cooking time depends on size of chicken).
- Remove the chicken from the grill/fry pan onto a plate. Cover loosely with foil and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Assembling Gyros
- If your chicken thighs are large, you may need to cut them. Get a pita bread or flatbread (preferably warmed) and place it on a piece of parchment paper (or you could use foil). Place some Salad down the middle of the bread, then top with chicken and Tzatziki.
- Roll the wrap up, enclosing it with the parchment paper. Twist the end with the excess parchment paper to secure it and cut if desired.
- I prefer to lay everything out on a table and let everyone help themselves.
Leave a Reply