Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is a beloved Mediterranean dish that combines juicy, marinated chicken with a refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of Greece in a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it's a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tender, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. It's a versatile dish that's great for casual family dinners or entertaining guests. Plus, it's customizable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Greek yogurt
- Fresh lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
For the Greek Salad:
- Tomatoes, diced
- Cucumber, peeled and diced
- Red onion, diced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Feta cheese (optional)
To Serve:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Additional toppings like lettuce, olives, or more feta cheese (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (ensure it's well-drained), minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Make the Greek Salad: Combine diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Add feta cheese if desired.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita bread. Place sliced chicken in the center, top with Greek salad and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Add any additional toppings I like. Fold the pita over the fillings and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: At least 2 hours (preferably overnight)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Bread Choices: Use naan or whole wheat wraps instead of traditional pita.
- Additional Toppings: Add pickled onions, olives, or spicy sauces for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken, tzatziki sauce, and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble the gyros just before serving to maintain freshness.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for gyros?
I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work well too if I prefer leaner meat.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the tzatziki sauce a day in advance. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating overnight yields the most flavorful results, marinating for at least 2 hours will still infuse the chicken with great taste.
Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste of the gyros.
What can I serve with chicken gyros?
I like to serve them with a side of roasted potatoes, a simple Greek salad, or even some hummus and pita chips for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to the table. With its flavorful marinated chicken, refreshing tzatziki sauce, and crisp salad, it's a meal that's both satisfying and versatile. Whether I’m making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it always hits the spot.
Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (includes marinating)
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Skillet
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki recipe is a flavorful and easy Mediterranean meal featuring juicy marinated chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies wrapped in warm pita. Made with apple cider vinegar for a balanced tang, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Greek yogurt
- Fresh lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated and squeezed
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- For the Greek Salad:
- Tomatoes, diced
- Cucumber, peeled and diced
- Red onion, diced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Feta cheese (optional)
- To Serve:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Optional toppings: lettuce, olives, extra feta
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Make Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill.
- Prepare Salad: Toss tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and parsley with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add feta if desired.
- Cook Chicken: Grill or sear chicken over medium-high heat until cooked and lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.
- Assemble Gyros: Warm pita, layer with chicken, salad, and tzatziki. Add extra toppings if desired. Fold and serve.
Notes
- Chicken: Thighs offer more flavor, but breasts are leaner.
- Tzatziki Tip: Make it ahead to let the flavors meld.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with hummus, olives, or roasted potatoes.
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