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Greek Chicken Gyros recipe

 

Recipe Variation: Mediterranean Chicken Wraps with Homemade Hummus

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Hummus:

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Water (as needed for consistency)

For Assembling:

  • 6 large whole wheat wraps or tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Kalamata olives, sliced (optional)

Directions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a bowl or Ziploc bag, combine chicken tenderloins, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally.
  2. Prepare the Hummus:
    • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If needed, add water gradually to achieve desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste. Transfer hummus to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken tenderloins for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  4. Assemble the Wraps:
    • Warm the wraps or tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave.
    • Spread a generous layer of hummus over each wrap.
    • Layer with shredded romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion slices, and sliced grilled chicken strips.
    • If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and add sliced Kalamata olives.
  5. Roll and Serve:
    • Roll up each wrap tightly, folding in the sides as you go to secure the filling.
    • Slice each wrap in half diagonally.
    • Serve immediately, with additional hummus on the side for dipping if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per wrap
Servings: 6 wraps

Enjoy these Mediterranean Chicken Wraps with Homemade Hummus for a delicious and satisfying meal!

Here are some tips to elevate your Greek Chicken Gyros recipe and make it even more delightful:

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken tenderloins and fresh herbs like oregano and dill for the tzatziki sauce. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the flavors.
  2. Marinate for Longer: While the recipe suggests marinating for at least 2 hours, consider marinating the chicken overnight for richer flavors. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeply into the meat.
  3. Grill to Perfection: Ensure your grill is preheated well before cooking the chicken. Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juiciness and flavor. Don’t overcook to avoid dryness.
  4. Homemade Tzatziki Sauce: Make sure to grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery. Letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together.
  5. Warm Pitas Correctly: Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a skillet just before assembling the gyros. This helps them become more pliable and adds a subtle smoky flavor.
  6. Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the gyro filling for an extra burst of freshness and aroma.
  7. Serve with Extras: Offer additional toppings such as crumbled feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the gyros for added complexity and tanginess.
  8. Presentation: Arrange the gyros neatly on a platter or individual plates, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a sprig of fresh dill for a restaurant-style presentation.
  9. Pairing Suggestions: Serve the gyros with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even crispy oven-baked fries for a complete meal experience.
  10. Enjoy Fresh: Gyros are best enjoyed immediately after assembling to retain their textures and flavors. Encourage your guests to dig in while everything is still warm and fresh.

By paying attention to these details, you can enhance the flavors, textures, and overall enjoyment of your Greek Chicken Gyros for a delightful dining experience!

Here are key tips to help you achieve gyro perfection:

  1. Proper Marination: Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight, in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This ensures the chicken is infused with flavor and remains juicy when grilled.
  2. Grilling Technique: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken tenderloins until they are fully cooked and develop a nice char, about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption without drying out the meat.
  3. Tzatziki Excellence: Make sure your tzatziki sauce is well-balanced and flavorful. Use Greek yogurt for its thick texture, and grate the cucumber finely. Squeeze out excess moisture from the cucumber to prevent the sauce from becoming watery. Allow the tzatziki to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  4. Warm Pita Bread: Warm the pita breads just before assembling the gyros. You can quickly warm them on the grill or in a dry skillet for a minute or two on each side. This step makes the pitas more pliable and enhances their texture.
  5. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients like ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp romaine lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, and flavorful herbs. These fresh components elevate the overall taste and texture of the gyros.
  6. Assembly Technique: Assemble the gyros with care. Start by spreading a generous layer of tzatziki sauce on the warmed pita bread. Arrange the grilled chicken strips, lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions evenly. Drizzle additional tzatziki on top before folding or rolling the gyro to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
  7. Seasoning Balance: Pay attention to seasoning throughout the cooking process. Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices to taste both in the marinade and the tzatziki sauce. A well-seasoned gyro is essential for a balanced and delicious flavor profile.
  8. Resting Time: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each slice remains moist and flavorful.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the gyros with a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or a pinch of paprika for added visual appeal and flavor. Serve immediately while everything is still warm and fresh for the best dining experience.
  10. Enjoy Fresh: Gyros are best enjoyed immediately after assembling to maintain their textures and flavors. Serve with extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

By following these secrets and tips, you’ll be able to create a memorable and delicious Greek Chicken Gyros that rivals your favorite Mediterranean restaurant!

 Here’s a list of 40 popular questions and answers related to Greek Chicken Gyros:

  1. What is Greek Chicken Gyros?
    • Greek Chicken Gyros is a traditional Greek dish consisting of marinated grilled chicken served in pita bread with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
  2. What is tzatziki sauce made of?
    • Tzatziki sauce is made of Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess moisture), garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken tenderloins?
    • Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins. Thighs will add a bit more juiciness and flavor to the gyros.
  4. How long should I marinate the chicken?
    • It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will enhance the flavor even more.
  5. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
    • Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked through.
  6. What type of pita bread should I use?
    • Use Greek-style or pocketless pita bread for gyros. You can warm them on the grill or in a skillet before assembling.
  7. How do I prevent tzatziki sauce from becoming watery?
    • Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before mixing it with the other ingredients.
  8. What are traditional toppings for Greek Chicken Gyros?
    • Traditional toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and sometimes crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives.
  9. Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can make tzatziki sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
    • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  11. What other meats can be used instead of chicken?
    • Gyros can also be made with lamb, pork, or beef. The cooking times and marinades may vary.
  12. Can I freeze leftover gyros?
    • It’s best to freeze the components separately. Freeze the grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce separately for up to 2-3 months.
  13. How do I reheat gyros?
    • Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Warm the pita bread briefly in a skillet or toaster oven.
  14. What can I serve with Greek Chicken Gyros?
    • Serve gyros with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or fries. They also pair well with rice pilaf or couscous.
  15. Is Greek yogurt necessary for tzatziki sauce?
    • Yes, Greek yogurt provides the thick and creamy texture that is characteristic of tzatziki sauce.
  16. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
    • Greek yogurt is preferred for its thicker consistency, but you can use regular yogurt if strained to thicken it.
  17. What kind of cucumber is best for tzatziki sauce?
    • English cucumber (also known as seedless or hothouse cucumber) is ideal because it has fewer seeds and a milder flavor.
  18. Can I add mint to tzatziki sauce?
    • Yes, adding a small amount of finely chopped fresh mint can add a refreshing twist to tzatziki sauce.
  19. How can I make gyros healthier?
    • Use whole wheat pita bread, lean chicken, and load up on fresh vegetables. Opt for low-fat Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce.
  20. What herbs are used in Greek marinade?
    • The Greek marinade typically includes dried oregano, dried thyme, and sometimes a touch of paprika for added flavor.
  21. Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?
    • Yes, you can use store-bought tzatziki sauce if you’re short on time. Look for brands with natural ingredients and adjust seasoning as needed.
  22. Do I need to peel the cucumber for tzatziki sauce?
    • If using English cucumber, the peel is thin and tender, so it’s not necessary to peel it. You can leave it on for added texture and color.
  23. How do I prevent pita bread from getting soggy?
    • Avoid overfilling the pita bread with sauce and toppings. Warm the pita bread briefly before assembling to make it more pliable.
  24. What’s the difference between gyro and shawarma?
    • Gyro is Greek and typically made with pork, lamb, or chicken, while shawarma is Middle Eastern and usually made with beef, lamb, or chicken.
  25. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the marinade?
    • Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs in the marinade. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
  26. What drinks pair well with Greek Chicken Gyros?
    • Pair gyros with Greek beer, a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko, or a refreshing lemonade with mint.
  27. Can I make vegetarian gyros?
    • Yes, you can substitute grilled vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers for the chicken to make vegetarian gyros.
  28. How do I slice chicken for gyros?
    • Slice the grilled chicken against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness and easy bite-size pieces in the gyros.
  29. What’s the best way to grill chicken for gyros?
    • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken until fully cooked through, turning once halfway through cooking.
  30. How many gyros does this recipe make?
    • This recipe typically makes about 6 servings, depending on how generously you fill each pita.
  31. Can I make gyros in the oven?
    • Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, then slice and assemble in warmed pita bread.
  32. How do I store leftover tzatziki sauce?
    • Store leftover tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  33. What’s the best way to season the chicken for gyros?
    • Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and minced garlic for authentic Greek flavors.
  34. Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt in tzatziki sauce?
    • Greek yogurt is preferred for its tangy flavor and thick texture. Sour cream can be used as a substitute, but the taste and consistency will be different.
  35. How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
    • Preheat the grill properly and brush the grates with oil before cooking. Ensure the chicken is dry and not dripping with marinade.
  36. Can I use leftover gyro ingredients for other recipes?
    • Yes, leftover grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and vegetables can be used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches for quick and tasty meals.
  37. What’s the origin of gyros?
    • Gyros originated in Greece and are traditionally made with meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
  38. How do I make a low-carb version of gyros?
    • Use lettuce wraps instead of pita bread and load them with grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables for a low-carb option.
  39. Can I use yogurt with fruit in tzatziki sauce?
    • No, avoid yogurt with fruit flavors for tzatziki sauce as it will alter the traditional savory taste.
  40. How do I make gyros for a crowd?
    • Prepare the components (marinated chicken, tzatziki sauce, chopped vegetables) ahead of time and assemble gyros just before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.

These questions and answers should help you navigate the process of making delicious Greek Chicken Gyros with confidence and success!