- Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though for best flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours (or overnight if possible). - Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, make the tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumber, then squeeze out any excess water using a clean towel or paper towels. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill or mint. Mix well, season with salt and pepper to taste, and refrigerate until ready to serve. This sauce can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. - Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness, until cooked through and slightly charred. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. - Warm the Pita Bread
While the chicken is resting, warm the pita bread. You can heat the pita rounds in the same pan or in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable. - Assemble the Gyros
To assemble your gyros, lay out a warm pita round and spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce in the center. Add a handful of sliced chicken, then layer on the tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce or greens. For a salty, creamy touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta on top. Wrap the pita around the filling, folding it like a taco or burrito. - Serve
Serve the gyros immediately, garnished with extra tzatziki or a side of Greek salad. If you want, you can wrap the base of the gyro in foil or parchment paper to keep the fillings neatly tucked in while eating.
Tips and Variations
Chicken substitutions: If you prefer, you can use pork, beef, or lamb instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, falafel, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian gyro.
Add olives: For an authentic Greek touch, add some sliced Kalamata olives to the filling.
Spice it up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce over the filling before wrapping.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a pan or microwave before assembling the gyros.
Tzatziki sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days but should not be frozen due to the yogurt’s texture.
Freezing:
You can freeze the marinated chicken (uncooked) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken Gyros pair wonderfully with other Mediterranean dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
Greek salad: A classic side with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta.
Oven-roasted potatoes: Crispy lemony Greek potatoes are the perfect match.
Feta fries: French fries topped with crumbled feta cheese and oregano.
For drinks, consider serving gyros with:
Iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
White wine or rosé for a light, crisp pairing.
Greek beer like Mythos or Fix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can absolutely use store-bought tzatziki. However, making your own is fresher and allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking.
What type of chicken works best for gyros?
Chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy and tender, even after grilling. However, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option.
Can I make these gyros ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and tzatziki ahead of time. Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the gyros. Just reheat the chicken and warm the pita before serving.
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