If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal, this Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is a fantastic choice. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, it combines tender, marinated chicken thighs with creamy tzatziki sauce, crisp vegetables, and soft pita bread.
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun summer gathering with friends and family. The smoky, grilled chicken paired with the cool, garlicky tzatziki creates a delicious balance that will leave everyone satisfied. Plus, it’s easy to make, even for beginners, and you can customize it to suit your taste.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step to create authentic Greek Chicken Gyros at home. From marinating the chicken to assembling the gyros, we’ve got you covered with detailed instructions.
We’ll also share tips for making the dish healthier, including supplement recommendations like Keto Actives for those on a ketogenic diet. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that brings the taste of Greece to your table!
Read Also: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
To make Greek Chicken Gyros for 4 servings, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for tzatziki)
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 4 pita breads
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: olives or extra cucumber slices for serving
For a healthier twist, consider adding Fibre Select to your diet to support digestion and overall wellness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this recipe:
- Grill or skillet for cooking the chicken
- Mixing bowl for marinating
- Grater for the cucumber
- Knife and cutting board for chopping
- Tongs for grilling
- Spoon for mixing tzatziki
- Plate for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to make Greek Chicken Gyros:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until well blended. The marinade should smell zesty and aromatic.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki. Take 1/2 a cucumber and grate it using a grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess water over a sink.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, the grated cucumber, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, 1 tbsp white vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Skillet
If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. If using a skillet, place it over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Wait until the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill or skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
The chicken should have a slight char and be golden brown. Use tongs to flip the chicken carefully. Once cooked, transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, slice the cooked chicken thighs into thin strips. Aim for 1/4-inch thick slices to ensure they fit nicely in the pita bread. Set the sliced chicken aside.
Step 6: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken rests, slice 1 tomato into thin rounds and 1/2 a red onion into thin slivers. If using optional cucumber slices or olives, prepare those as well. Arrange the vegetables on a plate for easy assembly.
Step 7: Warm the Pita Bread
To make the pita bread soft and pliable, warm it up. Place each pita on the grill or skillet for 30-60 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. Keep the pitas warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel.
Step 8: Assemble the Gyros
Lay a warm pita bread flat on a plate. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of tzatziki sauce down the center. Add a layer of sliced chicken thighs, followed by a few tomato slices and red onion slivers.
If desired, add cucumber slices or olives. Fold the pita around the fillings, tucking one end to hold everything in place.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the gyros immediately while warm. Pair with extra tzatziki on the side and optional olives or cucumber slices for a complete Mediterranean experience.
For a balanced meal, try Moringa Actives to support your weight loss goals and overall health.
Read Also: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (1 gyro, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g (6g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (4g fiber, 5g sugar)
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
These values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. To support healthy digestion, consider Probiosin Plus, a probiotic supplement that aids weight management and gut health.
Tips for Success
- Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight in the fridge.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the tzatziki sauce a day in advance to let the flavors meld.
- Healthier Option: Use whole wheat pita bread and reduce the olive oil in the marinade to cut calories.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for grilled tofu and try Tofu and Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice Recipe.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick.
To boost your metabolism while enjoying this meal, try Fat Burn Active for natural fat-burning support.
Variations to Try
This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is versatile, allowing you to tweak it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some creative variations to experiment with:
- Turkey Gyros: Swap chicken thighs for turkey breast for a leaner protein option. Marinate and cook the same way, but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side to avoid drying it out. Try our Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers Recipe for another turkey-inspired dish.
- Vegetarian Gyros: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then marinate and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Mushrooms add a meaty texture and absorb the marinade well. Check out Tofu and Veggie Stir-Fry with Brown Rice Recipe for more plant-based ideas.
- Spicy Gyros: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a fiery kick. You can also drizzle a spicy hot sauce over the assembled gyros.
- Low-Carb Gyros: Skip the pita bread and use lettuce leaves as wraps for a keto-friendly version. Romaine or butter lettuce works best. Pair with NuviaLab Keto to support your ketogenic diet.
- Herb-Infused Tzatziki: Mix in 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint or parsley to the tzatziki for a refreshing twist. Mint complements the cool cucumber flavor beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken Gyros are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas to serve alongside your gyros:
- Side Salad: A refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint Recipe adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory gyros. The crisp watermelon and creamy feta pair perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors.
- Crispy Fries: Serve with Air Fryer Classic French Fries for a crowd-pleasing side. Cook them in an air fryer for a healthier take on this classic.
- Olives and Pickles: Offer a small bowl of olives or pickled vegetables for an authentic Greek touch. Their briny flavor complements the tzatziki.
- Hummus Dip: Pair with a side of Healthy Hummus Recipe and carrot sticks or cucumber slices for a nutritious appetizer.
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with a chilled glass of green tea for a refreshing drink. For added health benefits, explore the Health Benefits of Green Tea.
To enhance your meal’s nutritional value, consider Matcha Extreme, a supplement that supports weight control and detoxification.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage keeps your Greek Chicken Gyros fresh and flavorful for later enjoyment. Follow these tips to store and reheat:
- Refrigeration: Store components separately to maintain quality. Place cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep tzatziki sauce in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Store sliced tomatoes and red onions in separate containers for up to 3 days. Pita bread stays fresh at room temperature for 1-2 days in a resealable bag.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing tzatziki, as it may separate upon thawing. Pita bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist. Alternatively, use an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Warm pita bread in an oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or on a grill for 30 seconds per side. Assemble gyros fresh for the best texture.
For better digestion during meals, try Probiosin Plus to support gut health and weight management.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The ingredients in Greek Chicken Gyros offer more than just great taste—they’re packed with nutrients that support your health. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: A great source of lean protein, chicken thighs support muscle growth and repair. They also provide essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which boost immunity and energy levels. Learn more about zinc in our Health Benefits of Zinc.
- Greek Yogurt: Used in tzatziki, Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics that promote gut health and digestion. It’s also high in protein and calcium, supporting strong bones and muscles. Pair with Probiosin Plus for enhanced probiotic benefits.
- Olive Oil: This heart-healthy fat is loaded with monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. To further support your heart, consider Lipid Control Plus.
- Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, boosting your immune system. It may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, promoting heart health.
- Cucumber: High in water and fiber, cucumbers aid hydration and digestion. They’re low in calories and provide vitamins like K, which supports bone health.
- Lemon Juice: Packed with vitamin C, lemon juice boosts immunity and acts as an antioxidant. It also aids digestion and helps detoxify the body. For additional detoxification support, try Fibre Select.
These ingredients make Greek Chicken Gyros a nutritious choice that’s both delicious and good for you.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken breast is leaner and may dry out if overcooked. To keep it juicy, marinate it for at least 1 hour and avoid cooking beyond 165°F. Slice thinly to ensure it stays tender in the gyros.
2. How do I store leftover gyros?
Store leftover components separately for best results. Keep cooked chicken thighs and tzatziki in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store pita bread at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet before assembling.
3. Can I make tzatziki without dairy?
Yes, you can make dairy-free tzatziki by using a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious. Adjust the lemon juice and dill to taste.
4. What can I serve with Greek Chicken Gyros?
Pair your gyros with cucumber slices, olives, or a side salad like Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint Recipe. For a heartier meal, serve with Air Fryer Classic French Fries. To support heart health, try Lipid Control Plus.
5. Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Use an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Check out our Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe for more tips on air frying poultry.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is a fantastic way to bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table. It’s simple enough for beginners yet packed with bold tastes that will impress your guests. The combination of tender, smoky chicken thighs, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in soft pita bread is hard to beat.
Plus, with customizable options and healthy supplement suggestions like NuviaLab Keto for keto dieters, this dish fits various lifestyles. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick family dinner, these gyros are sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy a taste of Greece at home!
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