Name: Mediterranean Chicken Gyros: 5 Juicy Flavors to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (substitute with coconut yogurt for dairy-free); 3 cloves garlic (minced, fresh preferred); 1 medium lemon (juiced); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high-quality recommended); 1 tablespoon dried oregano (fresh oregano can be used); 1 teaspoon ground cumin (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon ground coriander (adjust to taste); kosher salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste); 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, check cooking times); 1 medium cucumber (grated, excess moisture squeezed out); 2 tablespoons fresh dill (or substitute with parsley or mint); 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional in dairy-free recipes); 4 pieces pita bread (or naan, flatbread, lettuce wraps as low-carb options); shredded lettuce (to taste); diced tomatoes (to taste); sliced cucumber (to taste); thinly sliced red onion (to taste)

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Mediterranean Chicken Gyros is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce that your family will absolutely love. Whether you’re preparing a hearty weeknight dinner or looking for something special to impress guests, these gyros are guaranteed to please.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

This dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore these gyros:

Quick and easy to prepare, with just a few simple ingredients.
Full of authentic Mediterranean flavors that transport you to Greece.
Can be customized with various toppings like fresh veggies and homemade sauces.
Healthy option that fits well into a gluten-free diet.
Perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious lunches ready to go.
Great for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Plus, with the spiced chicken gyros recipe and fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice for everyone.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

Gather these items:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt (substitute with coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
3 cloves garlic (minced, fresh preferred)
1 medium lemon (juiced)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high-quality recommended)
1 tablespoon dried oregano (fresh oregano can be used)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground coriander (adjust to taste)
kosher salt (to taste)
black pepper (to taste)
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, check cooking times)
1 medium cucumber (grated, excess moisture squeezed out)
2 tablespoons fresh dill (or substitute with parsley or mint)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional in dairy-free recipes)
4 pieces pita bread (or naan, flatbread, lettuce wraps as low-carb options)
shredded lettuce (to taste)
diced tomatoes (to taste)
sliced cucumber (to taste)
thinly sliced red onion (to taste)

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Gyros Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Step 2: Place chicken thighs into a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring thorough coverage. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 3: Grate cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture, and mix with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt and pepper to make the tzatziki. Refrigerate until serving.
Step 4: Preheat grill to medium-high heat or oven to 400°F. Remove chicken from marinade, shake off excess, and grill for 6-7 minutes per side or bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 6: Warm the pita on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side or in a skillet until pliable.
Step 7: On each warm pita, spread tzatziki, layer with sliced chicken, and top with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Optionally sprinkle with feta and serve immediately.

Mediterranean Chicken Gyros: 5 Juicy Flavors to Savor - Mediterranean Chicken Gyros - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

Keep these in mind:

For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt.
Adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
Chicken can be substituted with other proteins as desired.
Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
Using a grill adds a delicious char to the chicken.

Best Ways to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

There are many delicious ways to enjoy Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki. Here are some great serving ideas:

Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
Top with your favorite Mediterranean vegetables for added nutrients.
Pair with homemade pita chips for an extra crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

To store leftovers, keep the chicken and toppings separate in airtight containers. This will help maintain freshness. The chicken can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’re making Mediterranean Chicken Gyros for meal prep, consider packing the components separately for easy assembly during the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Chicken Gyros

What’s the secret to perfect Mediterranean Chicken Gyros?

The secret lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors overnight ensures tender and juicy meat. Plus, use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

Can I make Mediterranean Chicken Gyros ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and grill it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for a quick Mediterranean Chicken Wraps meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mediterranean Chicken Gyros?

To avoid dryness, do not overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F. Also, ensure to let the meat rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Variations of Mediterranean Chicken Gyros You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some variations to consider:

Try using grilled vegetables for a Greek Style Chicken Gyros twist.
Experiment with different sauces like tahini or hummus.
Swap chicken for lamb or beef for a different flavor profile.
Make it a quick Mediterranean Chicken Gyros meal by using pre-cooked chicken.

With these variations, you can enjoy this dish in new and exciting ways!