If you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean, these Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny Greek island. Bursting with flavors and textures, this recipe is a delightful mix of succulent grilled chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in a warm pita. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders or breasts, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp dried Mediterranean oregano
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 baby cucumbers, grated
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 4 pitas, warmed
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickled onions
- 2 baby cucumbers, diced
- 1 beefsteak tomato, diced
- 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
Greek Chicken
Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for enhanced flavor.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, clean and lightly oil the grates. If using a grill pan, drizzle some olive oil on it.
- Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is nicely charred.
Tzatziki Sauce
Combine the Ingredients
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, dill, cumin, lemon zest, and olive oil until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to assemble the gyros, allowing the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Gyros
Build the Gyros
- Place a warm pita on a plate.
- Add a portion of the grilled chicken.
- Top with shredded lettuce, pickled onions, diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta.
- Generously drizzle with the Tzatziki sauce.
- Fold the pita over the fillings or wrap it up.
- Enjoy your freshly made Greek Chicken Gyros with a side of extra Tzatziki sauce for dipping!
Tips for the Perfect Gyros
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you can, marinate it overnight.
- Grilling: Ensure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps in getting those beautiful char marks and a nice smoky flavor.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Make the tzatziki sauce a few hours ahead of time to let the flavors blend well.
- Serving: Warm the pitas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable.
These Greek Chicken Gyros with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce are perfect for a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or any time you want to enjoy a taste of Greece. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. Give this recipe a try and bring a bit of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!