These Greek Chicken Gyros are a tasty treat! Tender chicken marinates in a zesty lemon herb mix, then it’s grilled to perfection. Don’t forget the creamy tzatziki sauce!
Honestly, I love wrapping these in fluffy pita bread with fresh veggies—it’s a total win! Perfect for summer dinners or impressing friends at a casual get-together. 🌿🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moistness and flavor, but you can also use breasts if you prefer leaner meat. If you want a vegetarian option, grilled halloumi or marinated tofu work nicely!
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat yogurt is ideal for that creamy texture in tzatziki. If you’re looking for a lighter option, go for low-fat yogurt. For dairy-free, try coconut yogurt—it adds a unique twist!
Herbs: Dried oregano is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment! Fresh rosemary or thyme also pairs well with the marinade. If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them—they enhance the flavor beautifully!
How Do I Make Perfect Tzatziki Sauce?
Create a delicious tzatziki sauce by balancing yogurt, cucumber, and herbs. The key is to drain the cucumber to keep the sauce thick. Here’s how:
- Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean cloth or paper towel. Squeeze out as much water as you can.
- Combine the dry cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix until smooth.
- Let it chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld for at least 30 minutes. This makes all the difference!
By following these tips, you’ll create flavorful and satisfying Greek Chicken Gyros at home. Enjoy every bite!
Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon Herb Marinade and Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full fat for best creaminess)
- ½ cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely grated or diced
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced or sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour (preferably 3-4 hours or overnight) for marinating, and then about 15 minutes for cooking and assembly. In total, plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This marinade is what makes the chicken flavorful and juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, keep it in there for 3-4 hours or even overnight for the best flavor.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken marinates, let’s whip up the tzatziki sauce! To do this, finely grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken should be nice and browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips for the gyros.
5. Warm the Pita Bread:
While the chicken is resting, lightly warm the pita breads on the grill or in an oven wrapped in foil for about 2-3 minutes. This step makes them easy to fold.
6. Assemble the Gyros:
Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce on each pita. Next, layer on sliced chicken, red onion, tomato, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. If you like, add fresh parsley or oregano for a lovely garnish.
7. Serve:
Fold the pita over the fillings and serve immediately while warm. These gyros are best enjoyed fresh and hot!
Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Gyros with the bright, fresh flavors of lemon and herbs complemented perfectly by creamy tzatziki!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide great flavor and moisture, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. You could also experiment with pork or lamb for a different taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor even more! Additionally, the tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt, but it may be thinner. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt works well—just keep in mind it will add a subtle coconut flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet. The tzatziki sauce will also last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Enjoy your gyros as a tasty lunch or dinner option!
