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Homemade Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this homemade Chicken Gyros recipe, featuring tender marinated chicken, cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread. Perfectly balanced with aromatic herbs and spices, this Mediterranean-inspired main course is ideal for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 large cucumber, finely grated
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Assembly

  • 6 pita breads or flatbreads, warmed
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs or breasts and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  2. Make the Tzatziki: Press out the excess liquid from the grated cucumber using a clean kitchen towel or fine sieve. In a separate bowl, mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh dill, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill the tzatziki for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill, skillet, or the oven broiler to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices before slicing into thin strips.
  4. Assemble the Gyros: Place a warmed pita bread on a flat surface. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over the pita. Add a portion of the sliced chicken, then top with thinly sliced red onions, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese if using. Fold the pita around the fillings and optionally secure with parchment paper or foil for easier eating.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Repeat the assembly for remaining pitas. Serve your homemade chicken gyros with sides such as fries, a fresh Greek salad, or extra tzatziki for dipping to complete this delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight, but a minimum of 2 hours will suffice.
  • Using chicken thighs offers more tender and juicy meat compared to breasts, but both work well.
  • Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber to avoid a watery tzatziki.
  • Feta cheese is optional but adds an authentic Greek touch.
  • Gyros can be cooked on the grill, stovetop skillet, or oven broiler depending on your equipment.
  • Leftover gyros can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat chicken gently to avoid drying it out.

Find it online: https://zaracooking.com/homemade-greek-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-recipe/