Chicken Gyro

When I think of summer evenings, the first thing that comes to mind is the mouthwatering scent of grilled chicken wafting through the air. This is the perfect time for a delicious Chicken Gyro. Growing up, my family used to have outdoor barbecues where we would gather around the grill, share stories, and indulge in flavorful meals. The highlight was always the Chicken Gyro, with its tender, marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in soft pita bread. Every bite was a burst of flavor that transported me straight to the streets of Greece.

Now, I love sharing this experience with my friends and family. Each summer, I experiment with different marinades and toppings, making every Chicken Gyro unique. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a chance to connect with those I love over delicious food. The joy of preparing these gyros together, grilling the chicken, chopping the fresh veggies, and mixing up the tzatziki sauce is something I cherish deeply. Plus, they’re perfect for parties! Everyone loves to customize their gyros just the way they like them.

Let me guide you to recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen. You’ll find that making Chicken Gyro is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. The harmony of flavors, from the zesty lemon to the rich, creamy yogurt, makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Gyro

The beauty of the Chicken Gyro lies in its fresh and vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken is tender and flavorful, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and brightness. Together, they come together in a warm pita bread, creating a satisfying and delightful meal.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The main protein that gets marinated and grilled to perfection, adding rich flavor and juicy texture.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Used for marinating the chicken, it tenderizes the meat and adds a creamy element.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all flavors.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that adds a wonderful earthiness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Provides aromatic flavor that elevates the marinade.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the yogurt.
• 1 small red onion, minced: Offers a sweet and sharp flavor that adds depth to the filling.
• 3-4 ripe roma tomatoes, diced and seeded: Fresh tomatoes provide juiciness and sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon minced parsley: Adds a touch of color and freshness to the final dish.
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: For additional brightness in the tomato and onion mixture.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for final seasoning.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A cool, creamy sauce that complements the gyro beautifully.
• 6-8 green leaf lettuce leaves: Provides a crunchy and fresh layer in the gyro.
• 6-8 pita bread: The vessel that holds all the delicious components together.

Recipe Steps for Chicken Gyro

Making Chicken Gyro is a simple yet enjoyable process. Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to life. You’ll love how each step builds on the flavors, creating a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and ¼ cup fresh lemon juice. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, forming a smooth marinade for the chicken. The yogurt should be creamy and the garlic fragrant.

2. Take 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and place them into a large shallow bowl or freezer bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken, which will help infuse the flavors. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the chicken to marinate.

3. After marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the surface with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. The grill should be hot enough that you hear a sizzle when the chicken is placed on it.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉/74℃. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color on the outside, indicating a nice sear.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains juicy. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips, which will make for easy assembly in the gyros.

6. While the chicken is resting, prepare the tomato and onion mixture. In a small mixing bowl, combine 3-4 ripe roma tomatoes (seeded and diced), 1 small minced red onion, 1 tablespoon minced parsley, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently and set aside to let the flavors meld.

7. To prepare the pita bread, warm it in a dry skillet or microwave for about 15 to 30 seconds per side, until soft and pliable. This step is essential, as it makes assembling the gyros much easier.

8. Now, it’s time to assemble your Chicken Gyro. Take a piece of warmed pita and layer it with a few leaves of green leaf lettuce. Add about ¼ to ⅓ cup of sliced chicken in the center of the pita, followed by ¼ cup of the tomato and onion mixture. Finally, dollop generously with Tzatziki sauce, adding that creamy, tangy flavor that ties everything together.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite! You can also serve the gyros with extra Tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.

Expert Tips about Chicken Gyro

As you embark on making your Chicken Gyro, here are some expert tips to ensure you achieve the best results. These insights will elevate your dish and make it memorable for everyone at the table.

• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the tomato and onion salad and Tzatziki sauce in separate containers for maximum freshness.
• Freezing: If you have leftover marinated chicken, you can freeze it for later. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Serving: Warm pita bread adds a nice touch. It’s best to assemble the gyros right before serving to enjoy them at their freshest.
• Yogurt Choice: Always choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for the marinade to keep it authentic.
• Baking Chicken: If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can opt to bake the marinated chicken instead. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until cooked through.

Great Combinations for Chicken Gyro

When serving Chicken Gyro, consider these delightful combinations to enhance your meal experience:

• Fresh Salads: Pair your gyros with a refreshing Greek salad to complement the flavors.
• Dips and Spreads: Serve alongside hummus or baba ganoush for added variety.
• Occasional Treats: These gyros are perfect for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners.
• Storage Tips: Leftover components can be stored separately, making it easy to create quick meals throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob during summer gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Gyro is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. With marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce all wrapped in warm pita, it’s a delightful meal that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to try making this dish; it’s not only easy but also a wonderful way to bring loved ones together over a delicious meal. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home!

Chicken Gyro

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Gyro is a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your home. Featuring marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki wrapped in warm pita, it’s a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or casual nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 small red onion
• 3-4 pieces ripe roma tomatoes diced and seeded
• 1 tablespoon minced parsley
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 serving Tzatziki Sauce
• 6-8 pieces green leaf lettuce leaves
• 6-8 pieces pita bread

Instructions

 

• In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and ¼ cup fresh lemon juice. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, forming a smooth marinade for the chicken.
• Take 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and place them into a large shallow bowl or freezer bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken, which will help infuse the flavors. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the chicken to marinate.
• After marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the surface with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉/74℃. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color on the outside, indicating a nice sear.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
• While the chicken is resting, prepare the tomato and onion mixture. In a small mixing bowl, combine 3-4 ripe roma tomatoes (seeded and diced), 1 small minced red onion, 1 tablespoon minced parsley, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently and set aside to let the flavors meld.
• To prepare the pita bread, warm it in a dry skillet or microwave for about 15 to 30 seconds per side, until soft and pliable.
• Now, it’s time to assemble your Chicken Gyro. Take a piece of warmed pita and layer it with a few leaves of green leaf lettuce. Add about ¼ to ⅓ cup of sliced chicken in the center of the pita, followed by ¼ cup of the tomato and onion mixture. Finally, dollop generously with Tzatziki sauce, adding that creamy, tangy flavor that ties everything together.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite! You can also serve the gyros with extra Tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the tomato and onion salad and Tzatziki sauce in separate containers for maximum freshness.
• Freezing: If you have leftover marinated chicken, you can freeze it for later. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Serving: Warm pita bread adds a nice touch. It’s best to assemble the gyros right before serving to enjoy them at their freshest.
• Yogurt Choice: Always choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for the marinade to keep it authentic.
• Baking Chicken: If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can opt to bake the marinated chicken instead. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until cooked through.

Keyword Chicken Gyro, easy weeknight dinner, grilled chicken gyros, Mediterranean recipes

Previous PostEasy Mexican Rice

Next Post Hot Chocolate

Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.