Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki Recipe

Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, and the creamy cucumber tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing contrast, making every bite bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Greek Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (strained or regular)
• ½ cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve:

• 4 pita bread or flatbreads
• Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, red onions, lettuce)
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade and coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to allow the flavors to soak in.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using chicken thighs, cook a little longer until they are tender and juicy.
3. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

1. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads on the grill or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.
2. To assemble, place a generous amount of sliced chicken on each pita.
3. Top with a spoonful of cucumber tzatziki sauce, and add fresh veggies like sliced tomatoes, red onions, and lettuce.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the Greek Chicken Gyros immediately with extra tzatziki sauce on the side and enjoy!

Why These Greek Chicken Gyros are a Must-Try:

• Flavorful and Juicy: The marinated chicken is bursting with Mediterranean spices, making each bite full of flavor.
• Healthy and Light: With lean chicken and a fresh cucumber tzatziki, this dish is packed with nutrients without being heavy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like feta cheese, olives, or even a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Pro Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before for even more flavor or prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time to save time.
• Grilling Option: For a smoky, charred flavor, grill the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of using a skillet or grill pan.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for falafel or grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.

Perfect Pairings:

• Serve with a side of Greek Salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a refreshing lemonade for a bright, fresh contrast.an-inspired meals. Enjoy the delicious and fresh flavors of Greece right at home!Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies