Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki — the ultimate *chicken gyros* recipe for a flavorful Mediterranean feast! This dish captures authentic Greek flavors with a zesty lemon-herb marinade and creamy, homemade tzatziki sauce, making it perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or quick weeknight meals. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is straightforward, customizable, and guaranteed to impress with its vibrant taste.

2. Ingredients for Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros with Lemon-Herb Marinade and Tzatziki

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, peeled and grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt to taste

3. How to Prepare the Lemon-Herb Marinade for Chicken Gyros

Creating a flavorful Greek marinade is essential to infuse your *chicken gyros* with authentic Mediterranean taste. The lemon-herb marinade combines fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and olive oil to tenderize and flavor the chicken evenly, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites.

Step 1: Mix the marinade ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This aromatic mixture is the foundation of traditional Greek *marinade* flavors, enhancing the chicken’s natural juiciness and adding depth to each bite.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Place the sliced chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.

4. Step-by-step Instructions to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Gyros

Preparation of the chicken gyros

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, making sure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken for a delicious charred exterior.
2. Cook the marinated chicken in the grill or skillet for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and lightly browned.
3. Rest the cooked chicken for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips for serving or stuffing into pita bread.

5. How to Prepare Tzatziki Sauce for an Authentic Greek Taste

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber

Peeled, grated cucumber needs excess moisture squeezed out to prevent sogginess in the tzatziki. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to squeeze out the liquid thoroughly.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. For best flavor, refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Assembling the Greek Chicken Gyros

Warm pita breads or flatbreads, then layer with grilled chicken strips, fresh vegetables like sliced tomatoes, red onions, and crisp lettuce. Drizzle generously with homemade tzatziki sauce, which adds a cooling, tangy touch typical of authentic *gyros*. For a complete meal, serve with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables from salads. Wrap tightly and enjoy immediately, or serve with extra tzatziki on the side for dipping.

7. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Gyros and Tzatziki

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked chicken can be kept for up to 3 days; the tzatziki sauce stays fresh for about 2 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or skillet before assembling your gyros. Remember, for best texture and flavor, assemble only as much as you plan to eat at once. If you have leftover tzatziki, stir well before serving as it may thicken overnight.

8. Serving Suggestions for Your Greek Chicken Gyros

Pair your *chicken gyros* with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables, a refreshing avocado salad, or crispy fries. Enhance your meal with traditional Greek beverages like ouzo or a crisp white wine. For a fun, interactive dinner, set up a *gyro station* where guests can assemble their own with all the toppings.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this homemade *chicken gyros* recipe featuring a zesty lemon-herb marinade and creamy tzatziki sauce. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a healthy and delicious feast inspired by classic Greek cuisine. With fresh ingredients and a little love, you can create a memorable Mediterranean experience right in your own kitchen. Impress your guests and elevate your dinner menu with this irresistible Greek *chicken gyros* today!

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