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Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken, coating it thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

  1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  2. Adjust seasoning to taste, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil if needed.
  2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. (Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or juices run clear.)
  3. Remove chicken from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

  1. Warm each pita bread in a dry skillet or the oven until soft and pliable.
  2. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over each pita. Layer with sliced chicken, red onion, tomato, lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese if desired.
  3. Fold the pita around the filling, wrap in parchment or foil for easy eating, and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

  • Chicken Substitute: Swap chicken with lamb, beef, or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
  • Extra Toppings: Try adding sliced Kalamata olives or roasted red peppers for additional Greek-inspired flavors.
  • Dairy-Free Tzatziki: Use a dairy-free yogurt and skip the feta for a lighter version.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing Bowls: For marinade and tzatziki sauce.
  • Skillet or Grill Pan: To cook the chicken.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping vegetables and chicken.
  • Parchment or Foil (Optional): For wrapping the gyros.

Storing and Reheating

  • Leftover Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: Store in a separate airtight container and use within 2 days to maintain freshness.
  • Reheating Chicken: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or serve cold for a quick lunch wrap.

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