Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy: 5 Simple Steps!

gyro chicken recipe greek style easy

By:

Julia marin

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m thrilled to share my *gyro chicken recipe Greek style easy*! Seriously, it doesn’t get better than this. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a delightful blend of spices, grilled to perfection and tucked into warm pita bread. It’s bursting with flavor and so simple to whip up, you’ll wonder why you ever thought making gyros was complicated! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation. The best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s also a fun way to bring a taste of Greece to your dinner table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’re going to love how easy this gyro chicken is to prepare, and your taste buds are in for a treat!

gyro chicken recipe greek style easy - detail 1

Ingredients for Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create the most delicious gyro chicken. Each component plays a vital role in bringing out that authentic Greek flair. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1 cup tzatziki sauce
  • 1 cup packed chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Make sure your chicken thighs are well-trimmed, and feel free to use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor. This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Happy cooking!

Multi-Purpose Sealer

Multi-Purpose Sealer

3 in 1 Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer

3 in 1 Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer

Extend kitchen sink drain basket

Extend kitchen sink drain basket

Microwave Splatter Cover for Food

Microwave Splatter Cover for Food

How to Prepare the Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this amazing gyro chicken! It’s all about the flavors and textures coming together, so let’s make it happen!

Marinating the Chicken

First off, we’re going to create a mouthwatering marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until it’s well combined. This is where the magic begins! Add your chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure each piece is generously coated in that flavorful marinade. Trust me, you want to let those flavors soak in! Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but if you can swing it, let it marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

Once your chicken has marinated and you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. A grill pan works great too if you don’t have an outdoor grill! Add the chicken thighs to the hot grill or skillet, cooking them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F—this is where a meat thermometer comes in handy! Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken nice and juicy.

Assembling the Gyros

Now comes the fun part—assembling your gyros! Warm the pita breads on the grill for just 1-2 minutes until they’re soft and pliable. Start by placing a generous slice of that rested chicken on the pita, then drizzle over some tzatziki sauce (oh, the creaminess!), and pile on your chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced red onion. Feel free to layer it up however you like! Wrap it up tight and voilà—you’ve got yourself a delicious gyro ready to devour. Trust me, your taste buds are going to be so happy!

Tips for Success

To take your gyro chicken to the next level, I’ve got a few pro tips that will make all the difference. Let’s make sure your gyros are absolutely perfect!

  • Use Fresh Herbs: If you can, swap out dried oregano for fresh! It adds a vibrant flavor that really shines through. Just remember, you’ll want about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
  • Don’t Rush the Marinade: I know it can be tempting to skip marinating for too long, but really, the longer you let that chicken soak up the flavors, the better! Overnight is ideal, but even a few hours will enhance the taste significantly.
  • Try Different Proteins: While chicken thighs are my go-to, feel free to experiment! Pork, lamb, or even tofu can be fantastic alternatives that still work beautifully with the same spices.
  • Get the Grill Right: Make sure your grill or skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that delicious sear and keeps the chicken juicy. A good rule of thumb is to hear a satisfying sizzle as soon as the meat hits the surface.
  • Layer it Up: When assembling your gyros, don’t just toss everything on haphazardly. Layering the ingredients allows for even distribution of flavors with every bite. Start with the chicken, then tzatziki, and finish with veggies!
  • Serve with Fresh Lemon: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over your assembled gyros for that extra zing. It really brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely freshness!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering gyros that’ll impress everyone at your dinner table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations of Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy

If you’re looking to shake things up with your gyro chicken, you’re in luck! This recipe is super versatile, and there are so many fun variations you can try that will bring new flavors to the table. Here are some ideas that will keep your taste buds excited!

  • Spicy Twist: For a little kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could also swap out the paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
  • Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Try adding chopped fresh dill or mint to the marinade for a refreshing twist that adds a unique Greek flair. These herbs complement the tzatziki beautifully and brighten the overall dish.
  • Citrusy Flavor: Incorporate some lemon zest into the marinade for a bright, zesty flavor that really pops. The citrus will enhance the overall taste and give your chicken a refreshing lift.
  • Different Proteins: Switch up the protein altogether! While chicken is delicious, you can easily use lamb or pork for a more traditional gyro flavor. Tofu or tempeh works wonderfully for a vegetarian option, just ensure to marinate it well to absorb those amazing flavors.
  • Alternative Sauces: While tzatziki is a classic, feel free to try other sauces! A spicy feta dip or a tahini sauce can offer a delightful variation. Each sauce brings a different flavor profile that can completely transform your gyros.
  • Vegetable Additions: Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to your gyros. Not only do they add color and texture, but they also enhance the dish’s overall flavor.

These variations not only spice up the dish but also allow you to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. So go ahead, get creative, and make this gyro chicken your own! You might just discover a new favorite way to enjoy this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious gyro chicken ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal truly spectacular! The right sides can elevate your dinner from great to unforgettable, so here are some fantastic ideas that pair perfectly with those flavorful gyros:

  • Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad tossed with cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar for a simple yet delicious side!
  • Roasted Vegetables: Toss up some seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender and caramelized. They add a lovely earthy flavor that complements the gyros beautifully.
  • Tabbouleh: This vibrant parsley salad, with its bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and mint, is a wonderful way to bring freshness to your meal. The bright lemony flavor is a perfect match for the savory chicken.
  • Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries, whether traditional or sweet potato, are always a crowd-pleaser! They add a comforting element to your meal and are great for dipping in extra tzatziki sauce.
  • Spanakopita: These flaky spinach and feta pastries make for a delightful appetizer that pairs wonderfully with gyros. Their buttery layers and savory filling are simply irresistible!
  • Hummus and Pita Chips: Serve up some creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips for an easy and delicious starter. It’s a great way to keep that Mediterranean vibe going before you dig into your gyros.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: If you’re serving this meal during the warmer months, grilled corn brushed with a bit of butter and sprinkled with feta cheese is a showstopper that adds a sweet and savory element.

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you and your guests enjoy! Each dish brings its own unique flavor and texture, enhancing your gyro chicken experience. So, get creative and enjoy a delightful Mediterranean feast that will leave everyone raving about your cooking!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what’s in the meals you prepare, especially when they taste this fantastic! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of my gyro chicken recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so consider them as a general guide:

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also offers a balanced meal option that includes protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Enjoy your gyros knowing they’re a delicious choice for any meal!

FAQ About Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well. Just be sure to keep an eye on cooking times since breasts can dry out faster. Aim for the same internal temperature of 165°F.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover gyro chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled before you seal it up! Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

What can I use instead of tzatziki sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki on hand or want to try something different, a garlic yogurt sauce, hummus, or even a spicy feta dip can be fantastic alternatives. Each brings its own unique flavor that goes wonderfully with the chicken!

Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can definitely prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, when you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is add the chicken and let it soak up those delicious flavors!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This gyro chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate and cook a batch ahead of time, then portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just add your favorite veggies and sauces when you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this *gyro chicken recipe Greek style easy* as I am to share it with you! It’s such a fun and delicious way to bring a little taste of Greece into your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to experience the wonderful flavors and the joy of assembling your own gyros. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients and spices!

Once you’ve made this dish, I’d love to hear all about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? How did your gyros turn out? Please drop a comment below and share your thoughts, tips, or any questions you might have. Your feedback means the world to me and helps us all become better cooks together. Happy cooking, and enjoy every juicy bite of your homemade gyros!

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gyro chicken recipe greek style easy

Gyro Chicken Recipe Greek Style Easy: 5 Simple Steps!


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A flavorful Greek-style gyro chicken recipe that is easy to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1 cup tzatziki sauce
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  6. Warm pita breads on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Assemble gyros by placing sliced chicken on pita, then topping with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the marinade.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking temperature.
  • Serve with lemon wedges for added freshness.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 gyro
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: gyro chicken recipe, Greek style, easy gyro recipe, chicken gyros

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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