Ah, Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki! Just saying the name makes my mouth water! This recipe reminds me of my adventures during a summer vacation in Greece. I stumbled upon a tiny street vendor in a bustling market, where they served the most delicious gyros, wrapped in warm pita bread, and slathered with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce. I was hooked!
Since that mouthwatering experience, I’ve been on a mission to replicate that perfection at home. What I love about this recipe is the balance of vibrant flavors—the juicy marinated chicken, the cooling feta tzatziki, and the warm soft pita come together for a meal that’s not just dinner; it’s a celebration! Let me take you through how to make these tasty gyros and transport you to a sunny Greek island.
What’s in Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki?
Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are my go-to for gyros. Unlike chicken breasts, they hold moisture beautifully, making every bite tender and delicious.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the marinade and keeps the chicken succulent. I love using extra virgin as it adds a rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must! It adds depth and aroma to the chicken, infusing it with that Mediterranean essence.
Greek Yogurt: The base for the tzatziki, tangy Greek yogurt gives the sauce its creamy texture. I always opt for plain full-fat yogurt for a richer flavor.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the tzatziki. Removing the seeds helps prevent excess moisture, so we don’t end up with a watery sauce.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta in the tzatziki gives it a nice, tangy kick. I like to use a good quality Greek feta for an authentic taste.
Fresh Dill: This herb brightens up the tzatziki. Its fresh and slightly grassy flavor pairs wonderfully with the cucumber and yogurt.
Is Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki Good for You?
Absolutely! Chicken Gyros can be both delicious and nutritious.
Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein, chicken thighs provide essential amino acids and nutrients. Plus, they are lower in calories compared to red meat.
Greek Yogurt: This creamy base is rich in probiotics, which are great for gut health, and it’s high in protein too!
Cucumber: A low-calorie vegetable that’s hydrating and full of vitamins—perfect for adding that refreshing crunch!
The only thing to keep in mind is portion control with the tzatziki. While it’s made from wholesome ingredients, it can still be calorie-dense if you go overboard. But hey, life’s too short not to enjoy a little extra tzatziki!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– For the Feta Tzatziki:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 medium cucumber (grated, seeds removed)
– 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends!
How to Make Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki?
1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge for maximum flavor.
2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the feta tzatziki. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), crumbled feta, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld!
3. Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and charred.
4. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
5. Warm up the pita breads briefly on the grill or in a skillet.
6. To assemble, place some of the sliced chicken onto a pita, drizzle generously with the feta tzatziki, and add any additional toppings you desire.
7. Wrap it up and dig in!
Delicious Tips for Perfect Gyros
– If you love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick!
– You can swap out the chicken for lamb or even a plant-based protein if you prefer a vegetarian version.
– Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal or some crispy fries if you’re in the mood for something indulgent.
This Chicken Gyros with Feta Tzatziki recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively weekend gathering. I can’t wait for you to try it! So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
