Homemade Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

 Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with these flavorful Greek Chicken Gyros! Tender, marinated chicken, cooked to perfection and served in warm pita bread with creamy tzatziki sauce, fresh tomatoes, and red onions. This homemade recipe is a delightful taste of Greece.

• Keyword Focus: Greek Chicken Gyros, Chicken Gyro Recipe, Homemade Gyros, Easy Greek Food, Mediterranean Sandwich.

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time) Cook time: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred for juiciness) or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess liquid
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 6-8 pita breads
• 2 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Lettuce, french fries

Equipment:

• Large bowl or zip-top bag
• Grill, skillet, or oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Small bowl

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably for 4-8 hours (or even overnight for maximum flavor).
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumber and then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or a cheesecloth. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (if desired for easier handling). Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly charred, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skewers and slice or shred.
   • Skillet: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly browned. Slice or shred.
   • Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. You can broil for the last few minutes for extra browning, if desired. Slice or shred.
4. Warm the Pita Bread: While the chicken is cooking, warm the pita breads. You can do this in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, in the oven wrapped in foil, or even briefly in a microwave.
5. Assemble the Gyros: Lay a warm pita bread flat. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce down the center. Top with sliced or shredded chicken, sliced tomatoes, and sliced red onions. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. You can also add lettuce or even some french fries inside the gyro, if you like.
6. Serve: Fold the pita bread around the filling and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Greek Chicken Gyros! They're perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.