Grilled Chicken Gyros Recipe

Grilled Chicken Gyros are a perfect combination of tender, marinated chicken served in a warm pita with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce. This delicious dish brings the flavors of Greek cuisine to your table in no time, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita bread rounds
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup diced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup diced red onions
• Tzatziki sauce for serving

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
5. Warm the pita bread on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side.
6. To assemble the gyros, place the sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions on the warm pita bread. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
7. Serve the gyros warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use grilled halloumi cheese or falafel in place of chicken for a vegetarian gyro.
• Spicy Gyros: Add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the tzatziki sauce for some heat.
• Herb Variations: You can experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint in the tzatziki sauce or as a garnish to enhance the flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the pita and toppings separate to prevent sogginess.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also warm the pita in the oven or on a grill.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. Can I make this recipe without a grill?
   Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or on a grill pan. Simply heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side.
3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
   Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
4. What is tzatziki sauce?
   Tzatziki is a Greek yogurt-based sauce flavored with cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. It’s creamy, refreshing, and the perfect complement to gyros.
5. Can I use a different sauce besides tzatziki?
   Yes, you can use hummus, tahini, or even a yogurt-based ranch dressing as an alternative to tzatziki.
6. What type of pita bread should I use?
   Soft, pocket-style pita is ideal for gyros as it can hold the fillings without falling apart. You can also use flatbread if preferred.
7. Can I grill the vegetables as well?
   Yes, you can grill the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for added flavor. Just be sure to grill them for a short time to keep them fresh and crisp.
8. Can I make gyros with other meats?
   Yes, lamb, beef, or even turkey can be used as an alternative to chicken for a different take on the classic gyro.
9. Can I freeze the chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and reheat thoroughly before serving.
10. Can I make the gyros without the marinade?
    While marinating the chicken adds flavor, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Simply season the chicken with the olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper before grilling.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Gyros are a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple marinade and fresh toppings, these gyros are easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe will bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen in just 25 minutes!

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