Greek Chicken Gyros
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or 1 tsp lemon zest)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling:
4-6 pita bread (or flatbreads)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 tomato, sliced
1 cup fresh lettuce (optional, shredded)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Olives (optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Stir until smooth, and adjust seasoning to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, lightly grease it with oil.
Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. If using chicken breasts, you may need to cook them a little longer, around 8-10 minutes per side.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Assemble the Gyros:
Warm the pita bread or flatbread in a dry pan or microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable.
Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on the center of each pita.
Layer with sliced grilled chicken, thinly sliced onion, tomato, and a few olives if desired.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional tzatziki sauce if preferred.
Serve:
Roll up the pita around the fillings, and serve immediately.
These gyros are great with a side of Greek salad, fried potatoes, or some extra tzatziki for dipping.
