Greek Chicken Gyros with Cucumber Tzatziki

Introduction

Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and flavorful Mediterranean street food dish. Juicy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce come together inside warm pita bread for the perfect bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 680g skinless chicken thighs or fillets
• 60ml olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cucumber Tzatziki:

• 250 ml plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 4-6 pita breads, warmed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 50 g crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess water.
2. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Mix well and season with salt and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Gyros

1. Place a warm pita bread on a plate.
2. Add sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and red onion.
3. Spoon over a generous amount of cucumber tzatziki.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Fold the pita and enjoy!

History of Greek Gyros

Gyros originate from Greece and are inspired by Middle Eastern shawarma and Turkish döner kebab. Traditionally, gyros are made with meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with various toppings.

Benefits of this Dish

• High Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle growth.
• Rich in Probiotics: Greek yogurt in tzatziki supports gut health.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and feta cheese provide healthy fats.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve without pita for a keto-friendly meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approx. 450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fats: 18g

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make Mediterranean dish. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this gyro recipe brings authentic flavors to your table.