Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

The first time I had Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce, I couldn’t believe how vibrant the flavors were. At a little Greek restaurant around the corner from my friend’s apartment, the aromatic spices wafted through the air, inviting diners to savor every bite. The tender grilled chicken paired beautifully with the refreshing, creamy tzatziki sauce, creating a meal that was not just filling but also a delight for the senses. I knew then that I had to replicate this dish at home. The beauty of Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce lies in its simplicity, making it an accessible option for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.

What is Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Chicken gyros is a popular Greek dish that’s essentially a wrap filled with seasoned and grilled chicken, tucked within pita bread. Traditionally, gyros are made from various types of meat, including pork or lamb, but chicken has gained its own fans, particularly for its lighter flavor and health benefits. The chicken is marinated in a mix of herbs and spices, grilled to juicy perfection, and then served with fresh veggies and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers and garlic adds a cooling contrast to the warm, savory chicken. Every bite is a balance of textures and flavors, offering a culinary journey that transports you to the Mediterranean.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce:

The charm of Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is undeniable, and here are some compelling reasons to make this dish at home:

• Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
• The dish is family-friendly, appealing to both adults and kids
• It’s a great way for beginners to practice cooking
• Packed with flavor thanks to a delicious marinade
• Customizable with various toppings and sides
• A healthier alternative to fast food, especially when made at home

This recipe allows you to bring a taste of Greece right to your kitchen table. It’s an adventure in cooking that everyone can enjoy, and who doesn’t relish a meal that’s delicious and easy to assemble?

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pita bread, for serving
• Lettuce, for garnish
• Tomato, sliced, for garnish
• Red onion, sliced, for garnish
• Cucumber, diced, for tzatziki
• Yogurt, for tzatziki
• Garlic, minced, for tzatziki
• Lemon juice, for tzatziki
• Fresh dill, chopped, for tzatziki

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering gyros experience that’s just as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

1. Marinate the Chicken: Begin by mixing the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the sliced chicken and ensure it’s well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has nice grill marks.

3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the tzatziki. In a bowl, combine the diced cucumber, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Season it with salt to taste. Mix well and let it chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the gyros.

4. Assemble Your Gyros: Once the chicken is cooked, take a warm pita bread and add a generous scoop of the grilled chicken. Top it with tzatziki sauce, followed by fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions. Wrap it up snugly and serve.

This step-by-step guide ensures that you get perfectly seasoned chicken and refreshing tzatziki every time, making for a delightful, homemade meal.

Pro Tips and Variations:

Creating the perfect Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce can be enhanced with a few pro tips and possible variations:

• Use Bone-in Chicken: If you have the time, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier flavor.
• Tweak the Marinade: Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika for additional flavors in the marinade.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious meat-free version.
• Wrap it Differently: Instead of conventional pita bread, consider using flatbreads, or even homemade tortillas for a twist.
• Add More Crunch: Incorporate ingredients like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra texture.

Experimenting with these variations not only caters to different tastes but also keeps the meal exciting each time you make it.

How to Serve Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Serving Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is as fun as making it. Here are some great serving ideas:

• As a Traditional Wrap: Serve it straight as a wrap, with all the fresh ingredients inside.
• On a Platter: Create a gyros platter with multiple pita wraps, a bowl of tzatziki sauce, and assorted fresh vegetables on the side for everyone to build their own.
• Pair with Sides: Accompany your gyros with a light Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or more tzatziki and pita chips for dipping.
• Host a Party: Consider making an assembly line of ingredients for a fun DIY gyro station at gatherings or parties.

These suggestions not only elevate the serving experience but also cater to different occasions, from casual lunches to festive dinners.

How to Store Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Storing any leftovers from your Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is simple and straightforward:

• Storage in the Fridge: Place any leftover chicken and toppings in airtight containers. They should stay fresh for up to three days.
• Freezing Options: If you have a significant amount of chicken left, consider freezing it. Store grilled chicken in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to three months.
• Reheating Tips: When ready to eat, reheat chicken in a microwave or a skillet until warm. For the best taste, avoid microwaving the pita. Instead, warm the pita in a dry pan for a few moments before serving.

By storing your gyros properly, you can enjoy this delicious meal for days without compromising on flavor.

Nutrition Information

The nutrition information for Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used, but a standard serving provides a well-rounded meal. Typically, you can expect:

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: Around 30-35 grams from the chicken
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams primarily from the pita bread
• Healthy fats: About 15 grams, mainly from olive oil and yogurt
• Fiber: A few grams, depending on the vegetables included

This meal balances good protein, carbs, and fats, placing it nicely within a healthy dietary framework.

FAQs about Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply choose a gluten-free pita option or enjoy the grilled chicken and toppings alone without bread.

2. How spicy is this dish?
The original recipe is not spicy at all. If you prefer heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to your marinade.

3. How long can chicken gyros last in the fridge?
When stored properly, leftover chicken gyros can last in the fridge for up to three days.

4. What can I substitute for cucumber in the tzatziki sauce?
If you’re not a fan of cucumber, you can use finely chopped zucchini or even shredded carrots for a different twist on your tzatziki.

Conclusion

Creating Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce at home is not just an achievement; it’s a delicious journey made possible with simple ingredients and a quick cooking method. This dish embodies comfort and satisfaction while delivering vibrant flavors that can satisfy any palate. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or a more festive gathering, this recipe promises to impress. I encourage you to try this chicken gyros recipe and share your experience; you may just find yourself making it again and again!

Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

A delightful Greek dish featuring tender grilled chicken wrapped in pita bread and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 16 minutes mins

Total Time 46 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Greek

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 2 pieces chicken breasts, sliced Use boneless for easier handling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin is preferred for flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano Can substitute with fresh oregano.
• to taste Salt and pepper Season according to preference.

For Serving

• 4 pieces Pita bread Can use whole grain or gluten-free.
• 1 cup Lettuce, for garnish Use any fresh leafy green.
• 1 piece Tomato, sliced, for garnish Roma tomatoes work well.
• 1 piece Red onion, sliced, for garnish Can use white onion if preferred.

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Cucumber, diced Peel before dicing for smooth tzatziki.
• 1 cup Yogurt Greek yogurt is ideal for thickness.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust according to taste.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh dill, chopped Can substitute with mint.
• to taste Salt

Method

 

Preparation

1. Mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Add the sliced chicken and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until no longer pink inside.

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine diced cucumber, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
2. Season with salt to taste and let chill until serving.

Assembly

1. Take a warm pita bread and fill it with the grilled chicken.
2. Top with tzatziki sauce, fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions.
3. Wrap snugly and serve.

Notes

For different variations, consider using bone-in chicken for juiciness or making a vegetarian version with grilled vegetables.