Transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean with this *Traditional Greek Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce*. Juicy, marinated chicken thighs, infused with a blend of tangy Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic spices like oregano and cumin, are grilled to perfection and paired with a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Featuring vibrant layers of fresh toppings—crisp red onion, juicy tomatoes, and shredded lettuce—this recipe wraps everything in warm, fluffy pita bread for a handheld experience bursting with authentic Greek flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this iconic dish offers a delightful balance of savory, refreshing, and zesty components you'll savor in every bite. Serve it warm, wrapped snugly in parchment, for a genuine street food feel!
Prepare the chicken marinade by combining 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, oregano, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for the best flavor.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, grated cucumber (ensure excess liquid is squeezed out), 1 clove of minced garlic, dill, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
Warm the pita bread by lightly toasting it on the grill or placing it in a warm oven wrapped in foil.
Assemble the gyros by layering sliced chicken, tzatziki sauce, red onion, diced tomato, and shredded lettuce onto the warm pita bread.
Fold the pita around the filling, wrapping it tightly in parchment paper or aluminum foil to hold its shape. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
2764 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 106.6 g | 137% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.4 g | 132% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 774 mg | 258% | |
| Sodium | 4462 mg | 194% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 242.6 g | 88% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.8 g | 106% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.9 g | ||
| Protein | 221.8 g | 444% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 620 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 21.4 mg | 119% | |
| Potassium | 3864 mg | 82% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.