Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Introduction
Greek chicken gyros are a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines marinated grilled chicken, fluffy pita bread, and a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. This classic Greek dish brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, these chicken gyros are delicious, healthy, and easy to make.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Tzatziki Sauce:
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • Salt to taste
• To Assemble:
  • 4 pita breads
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced red onions
  • Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, making sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for extra flavor).
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
   In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water with a paper towel), minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. For added freshness, add chopped dill. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Grill the Chicken:
   Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. Warm the Pita Bread:
   Warm each pita bread on the grill or in a pan for about 1 minute on each side until soft and slightly charred.
5. Assemble the Gyros:
   Place sliced grilled chicken on each pita bread. Top with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve the gyros immediately, letting everyone add their own preferred toppings.

Conclusion
These Greek chicken gyros with tzatziki sauce are a delightful, easy-to-make meal that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors. The marinated chicken is juicy and full of herbs, while the creamy tzatziki adds a refreshing, tangy element. Wrapped in warm pita bread and loaded with fresh toppings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that transports you straight to the Greek Isles. Enjoy this recipe with family and friends for a fun, delicious experience!