Description
Prepare to embark on a flavor-packed adventure with the delightful Mediterranean Chicken Gyros! This classic Greek dish combines tender, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and the creamy goodness of tzatziki sauce, all nestled within the warm embrace of a pita bread. From the vibrant colors to the aromatic spices, every bite transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Greece, inviting you to savor the rich history and culture of this beloved Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 4 large pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. The secret to achieving the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Gyros lies in the marinating process. By allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the marinade, you’ll unlock a symphony of taste that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. In a bowl, simply mix the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least an hour or, for even deeper flavor, overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Once the chicken has been marinated, it’s time to bring it to life on the grill or in a hot pan. Grill the chicken over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can pan-sear the chicken, achieving a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring the juices are locked in for maximum tenderness and flavor.
3. No Mediterranean Chicken Gyros is complete without the signature tzatziki sauce. To create this cooling, creamy delight, simply combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess water squeezed out), minced garlic, olive oil, fresh dill (or dried), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together until well-blended, then refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until you’re ready to assemble your gyros.
4. The final step is to bring all the elements together for a truly mouthwatering experience. Start by warming the pita breads or flatbreads to make them pliable and ready to embrace the other ingredients. Layer the warm pita with shredded lettuce, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Top it all off with a generous dollop of the fresh tzatziki sauce. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top, and garnish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
Mediterranean Chicken Gyros are often served with side dishes that complement their flavors. Popular accompaniments include Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of hummus with pita chips. You can also serve them with French fries or a rice pilaf for a more filling meal. For a refreshing drink, consider serving tzatziki with a glass of tzatziki or a light Mediterranean wine.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 gyro
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg