Chicken Gyros

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of chicken gyros, a classic Mediterranean dish that brings the taste of Greece right to your kitchen. Juicy marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served in warm pita with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 15-20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 gyros) contains approximately 350 calories, 30g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This nutritional information is based on standard ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced chicken to the marinade and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
5. While the chicken cooks, prepare the veggies: slice the cucumber, dice the tomato, and thinly slice the red onion.
6. Warm the pita breads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side.
7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
9. Assemble the gyros by placing chicken, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion in each pita.
10. Top with tzatziki sauce and serve immediately.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, use grilled halloumi or falafel instead. Additionally, you can use whole wheat pita for a healthier choice.

Serving and Pairings

Chicken gyros pair wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with French fries or a light yogurt dip for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken gyros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave. Pitas can be refreshed in a toaster or on the grill. Freezing is not recommended for assembled gyros but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in less flavorful meat.
• Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
• Using too much sauce can make the gyros soggy.
• Not warming the pita can lead to a less enjoyable texture.
• Skipping fresh veggies makes the dish less vibrant and flavorful.

Helpful Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C).
• Allow the chicken to rest before slicing for juicier pieces.
• Experiment with different spices in the marinade for unique flavors.
• Serve with extra tzatziki on the side for dipping.

FAQs

Can I use other meats for gyros?

Yes, gyros can be made with beef, lamb, or even fish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked properly.

What is tzatziki sauce?

Tzatziki is a Greek yogurt-based sauce, typically made with cucumbers, garlic, and herbs. It adds a refreshing tang to gyros.

How do I make my gyros more flavorful?

Marinating the chicken longer and using fresh herbs can enhance the flavors significantly. Adding spices to the vegetables also helps.

Can I make chicken gyros in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the gyros when ready to serve.

What should I serve with chicken gyros?

Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even rice pilaf are great sides that complement chicken gyros perfectly, adding freshness and balance.

Conclusion

Chicken gyros are a delightful, satisfying meal that brings a taste of Greece into your home. With fresh ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors and share with friends and family for a delicious experience!

Chicken Gyros

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of chicken gyros, a classic Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Greek

Keyword: chicken gyros, Greek recipe, Mediterranean food, pita, easy dinner

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 500 g chicken breast sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup lettuce shredded
• 1 tomato diced
• 1/2 cucumber sliced
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Instructions

• In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Add the sliced chicken to the marinade and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
• Warm the pita breads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side.
• Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
• Assemble the gyros by placing chicken, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion in each pita.
• Top with tzatziki sauce and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 2g