Grilled Chicken Gyros

Grilled Chicken Gyros: A Taste of the Mediterranean at Home! 🥙🐔☀️

1. Introduction

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean? Look no further! This grilled chicken gyros recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. Forget takeout; making your own homemade chicken gyros is easier than you think, and arguably, much healthier! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful grilled gyro chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. If you’re looking for more lunch time inspiration, check out other recipes in our lunch category!

This recipe truly captures the essence of Greek street food, giving you that authentic taste without needing a plane ticket. For another exciting meal, consider a Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Bowl.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic and mouthwatering grilled chicken gyros recipe. Let’s get cooking!

2. Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are key to achieving that authentic Mediterranean flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 pita breads
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Optional: Feta cheese, Kalamata olives

Consider adding a side Mango Quinoa Salad for a burst of freshness!

3. Equipment

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s a quick rundown of the equipment you’ll need for this recipe:

• Mixing Bowl
• Grill or Grill Pan
• Skewers (if grilling skewers)
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

4. Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious grilled chicken gyros.

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. This step is crucial for achieving that authentic grilled gyro chicken taste. Don’t skip it! The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize it.

2. Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and has a slight char. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you prefer, you can grill the chicken pieces directly on the grill without skewers. This grilled chicken gyros recipe allows for flexibility based on your preference. For other delicious recipes, check out our recipes page

3. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is grilling, prepare your vegetables. Chop the cucumber, tomato, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Having fresh, crisp vegetables is key to a delicious chicken gyro recipe. You can also prepare any other desired toppings, such as feta cheese or Kalamata olives. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other veggies too! Bell peppers or banana peppers can add a great touch.

4. Assemble the Gyros

Warm the pita breads according to package instructions or by briefly heating them on the grill. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers (if used) and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce onto each pita bread. Add the grilled chicken, chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Top with feta cheese and Kalamata olives, if desired. Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up to create your homemade chicken gyros. For some, this is the best part!

5. Tips and Variations

Want to take your grilled chicken gyros to the next level? Here are some tips and variations to try:

• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the chicken after grilling.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and spices in the marinade to your liking.
• Try using different cuts of chicken, such as chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it.
• Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Serve the grilled chicken gyros with a side of fries or a Greek salad for a complete meal.
• Make your own tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Need a good sauce recipe? We have you covered!

If you’re a fan of grilled recipes, check out our other grilled options. And if you’re looking for more ways to use chicken, we have plenty of those too! This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe is another one to check out.

6. Nutritional Information

(Per Gyro – approximate values)

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 35-45g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Always consult with a nutritionist or healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

7. Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken gyros are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. To make it a full meal, consider serving them with:

• Greek Salad
• French Fries
• Roasted Potatoes
• Lemon Rice
• Hummus and Pita Chips

8. Storage Instructions

If you have leftover grilled gyro chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before assembling fresh gyros. Keep the vegetables and tzatziki sauce stored separately to maintain their freshness. Pita bread can be stored at room temperature in a sealed bag. This ensures that each component retains its best quality for when you’re ready to enjoy it again. For dessert, maybe some energy balls?

9. Conclusion

This grilled chicken gyros recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the delicious flavors of Greek cuisine in the comfort of your own home. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a healthy and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these homemade chicken gyros are sure to be a hit. If you like salad, add some to your gyros! Enjoy!

Print