The allure of Greek cuisine captivates with its fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients, making it a beloved staple for food enthusiasts. Among these culinary treasures, Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki shines brightly. This dish offers a mouthwatering combination of marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped up in warm pita bread. Perfect for everything from casual family dinners to gatherings with friends, it invites you to relish the Mediterranean in every bite.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
These Chicken Gyros stand out for their delightful balance of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken, cooked to perfection, is juicy and full of flavor. The freshness of the vegetables adds a crispy crunch, while the tzatziki sauce contributes a cool, creamy element that complements the spices beautifully. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a taste of Greece right to your kitchen.
How to Make The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
Creating this flavorful feast is simple and rewarding. Just gather your ingredients and follow these straightforward steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Red onion, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
For Tzatziki:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber (grated and drained)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Salt to taste
Directions:
To achieve the perfect Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki, follow these detailed steps:
Step 1: Preparation
In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken slices to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Cooking
Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken should be golden brown and no longer pink in the middle.
Step 3: Mixing
While the chicken cooks, prepare the tzatziki. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Step 4: Finishing
Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft. Assemble the gyros by placing cooked chicken on the pita and topping it with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Roll up the pita tightly and serve immediately.
How to Serve The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
Serve your gyros warm for the best experience. They make a great lunch or dinner option and are fantastic for casual gatherings. Pair with a side of Greek salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
How to Store The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the tzatziki and assembled gyros separate to maintain the pita’s texture. Reheat chicken in the microwave or on the skillet before assembling fresh gyros.
Expert Tips for Perfect The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding lemon juice to the marinade.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought tzatziki to save preparation time.
- Don’t overscook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Customize your toppings with other vegetables like bell peppers or even olives for added flavor.
- For a spicy twist, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the gyros.
Delicious Variations
- Pork or Lamb: Substitute chicken with pork or lamb for a richer taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Gyros: Add a spicy garlic sauce alongside the tzatziki for those who enjoy a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
A1: Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more, making it a great option for meal prep.
Q2: What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
A2: You can use regular plain yogurt, but the texture and creaminess won’t be as rich. For a non-dairy option, consider using coconut yogurt.
Q3: How do I prevent the pita from getting soggy?
A3: To prevent sogginess, serve the tzatziki on the side or spread it lightly on the pita so it doesn’t soak in too much moisture.
Q4: How long will the tzatziki last in the fridge?
A4: Homemade tzatziki will last about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q5: Can this recipe be grilled?
A5: Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just be sure the grill is preheated and oiled to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
The Best Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki is a delightful meal that combines the zest of Mediterranean flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these gyros are sure to impress. Easy to make, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this recipe invites you to explore the joy of cooking at home. So gather your ingredients, turn on some upbeat music, and have fun making this delicious dish! Enjoy every bite!
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Greek-Style Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A mouthwatering combination of marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in warm pita bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Red onion, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber (grated and drained)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for tzatziki)
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- Salt to taste (for tzatziki)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and no longer pink in the middle.
- Prepare the tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Warm pita bread. Assemble gyros with cooked chicken, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, crumbled feta, and tzatziki. Roll up and serve immediately.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve tzatziki on the side to prevent the pita from getting soggy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
