Greek Chicken Gyros are a popular lunch option for those who crave a hearty and flavorful meal. These wraps are made with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, and tzatziki sauce, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread. This dish is a perfect combination of protein, vegetables, and spices that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
The history of Greek Chicken Gyros dates back to the 1920s when it was first introduced in Greece as a street food. It quickly gained popularity due to its delicious taste and affordability. Today, it is enjoyed all around the world and has become a staple in Greek cuisine. Making these wraps at home is easy and requires only a few essential ingredients and kitchen tools.
Key Takeaways
- Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and satisfying lunch option made with grilled chicken, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce wrapped in pita bread.
- This dish has a rich history and has become a staple in Greek cuisine.
- Making Greek Chicken Gyros at home is easy and requires only a few essential ingredients and kitchen tools.
History of Greek Chicken Gyros
Greek Chicken Gyros is a popular Greek street food that has become famous worldwide. It is a delicious wrap made of grilled chicken, wrapped in a pita bread, and served with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, and tzatziki sauce.
The history of Greek Chicken Gyros can be traced back to the early 1920s when Greek immigrants brought the concept of doner kebab to Greece. The doner kebab is a Turkish dish made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The Greeks adapted the recipe and used pork instead of lamb. However, in the 1960s, the Greeks started using chicken instead of pork due to the increasing cost of pork.
The word “gyros” means “turn” in Greek, and it refers to the way the meat is cooked. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, and then it is placed on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is cooked slowly, and as it turns, it is sliced off in thin strips.
Greek Chicken Gyros became popular in Greece in the 1970s and 1980s when it was sold as a street food. It was easy to make, affordable, and delicious, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Today, Greek Chicken Gyros can be found in Greek restaurants and food trucks all over the world, and it has become a staple of Greek cuisine.
In conclusion, Greek Chicken Gyros is a delicious and popular Greek street food that has a rich history. It originated from the Turkish doner kebab and was adapted by the Greeks to use chicken instead of pork. It became popular in the 1970s and 1980s and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.
Essential Ingredients
Chicken
The key ingredient in Greek Chicken Gyros is, of course, the chicken. For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, as they are more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts. Marinating the chicken in a mixture of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs such as oregano and thyme will add even more flavor to the dish. The chicken can be grilled or cooked on a stovetop, depending on the available equipment.
Pita Bread
Pita bread is an essential ingredient in Greek Chicken Gyros, as it is used to wrap the chicken and vegetables. Look for fresh pita bread at your local bakery or grocery store, or make your own if you have the time and skills. The pita bread should be soft and pliable, with a slightly chewy texture. To warm up the pita bread, place it on a grill or griddle for a few seconds on each side, or wrap it in foil and heat it in the oven.
Vegetables
The vegetables used in Greek Chicken Gyros add freshness and crunch to the dish. Traditional toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers, but you can also use other vegetables such as bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese. Make sure to slice the vegetables thinly and evenly, so that they can be easily layered on top of the chicken and wrapped in the pita bread.
Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a creamy, tangy sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It is the perfect accompaniment to Greek Chicken Gyros, as it adds moisture and flavor to the dish. You can make your own tzatziki sauce by combining the ingredients in a bowl and stirring until smooth, or you can buy a pre-made version at the store. Make sure to chill the tzatziki sauce before serving, as it tastes best when cold.
Kitchen Tools Needed
To make Greek Chicken Gyros, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you prepare the ingredients and cook the chicken to perfection. Here are the tools you will need:
1. Grill or Fry Pan
To cook the chicken, you will need a grill or a fry pan. A grill will give the chicken a smoky flavor, while a fry pan will make the chicken crispy and golden brown. Make sure to preheat the grill or fry pan before cooking the chicken.
2. Mixing Bowl
You will need a mixing bowl to prepare the marinade for the chicken. The marinade is a mixture of Greek yogurt, garlic, spices, lemon juice, and olive oil. Make sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure that the chicken is well-coated.
3. Tongs
Tongs are essential for turning the chicken while it is cooking. They will help you cook the chicken evenly and prevent it from sticking to the grill or fry pan.
4. Cutting Board and Knife
You will need a cutting board and knife to prepare the vegetables for the gyros. You will need to chop the lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and cucumber into small pieces. Make sure to wash the vegetables before cutting them.
5. Pita Bread
To serve the gyros, you will need pita bread. You can either buy pre-made pita bread or make it from scratch. Make sure to warm the pita bread before serving.
6. Tzatziki Sauce
To add flavor to the gyros, you will need tzatziki sauce. Tzatziki sauce is a mixture of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt. You can either buy pre-made tzatziki sauce or make it from scratch.
By having these essential kitchen tools, you will be able to prepare and cook Greek Chicken Gyros with ease.
Preparing the Chicken
Marinating the Chicken
To make the perfect Greek Chicken Gyros, marinating the chicken is key. Begin by preparing the marinade by mixing Greek yogurt, garlic, spices, lemon juice, and olive oil. Ensure that all ingredients are well combined.
Next, add the chicken to the marinade and toss it using a pair of tongs. Make sure that all the pieces are well-coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the marinade, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling the chicken is the next step in preparing the perfect Greek Chicken Gyros. Begin by brushing the outdoor grill with oil and preheating it on medium-high heat. Alternatively, heat a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or frying pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken.
In conclusion, marinating the chicken and grilling it to perfection are the two essential steps in preparing the perfect Greek Chicken Gyros. By following these techniques, you can ensure that your chicken is flavorful, tender, and juicy, making your Greek Chicken Gyros a crowd-pleasing dish.
Assembling the Gyros
Layering the Ingredients
To assemble the Greek Chicken Gyros, start by placing a warm pita bread on a plate. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on the pita bread. Next, add a layer of lettuce leaves, followed by sliced tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers.
After the vegetables are layered, add the grilled chicken on top of the vegetables. To finish, add another dollop of tzatziki sauce on top of the chicken.
Folding the Pita
To fold the pita, start by bringing the bottom of the pita up towards the center of the ingredients. Next, fold the left and right sides of the pita towards the center. Finally, roll the pita tightly, making sure that the ingredients are secure inside the wrap.
Serve the Greek Chicken Gyros immediately while still warm. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Making Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients for Tzatziki
To make homemade tzatziki sauce, the following ingredients are needed:
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup of grated cucumber
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill (optional)
Mixing the Sauce
To prepare the sauce, start by grating the cucumber and squeezing out any excess water. Then, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are well combined.
If desired, add chopped fresh dill to the mixture and stir again. The dill adds a refreshing flavor to the sauce, but it is optional.
Once the tzatziki sauce is mixed, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Homemade tzatziki sauce is a delicious and healthy addition to any Greek chicken gyro. It is easy to make and adds a refreshing flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and filling lunch option that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy your gyros to the fullest.
Pita Bread
The pita bread is an essential component of the gyro. It is what holds everything together and provides the perfect vessel for the chicken, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. For the best results, use fresh pita bread that has been warmed up on a grill or in the oven. This will give it a nice crispy texture and make it easier to wrap around the filling.
Vegetables
The vegetables used in the gyro are what give it its fresh and crunchy texture. Sliced lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers are the most common vegetables used in a gyro. However, you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or even roasted eggplant to give it a unique flavor.
Tzatziki Sauce
The tzatziki sauce is what ties everything together in a gyro. It is a creamy and tangy sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It adds a refreshing flavor to the gyro and helps balance out the spices in the chicken. You can either make your own tzatziki sauce or buy it pre-made from the store.
Side Dishes
Greek Chicken Gyros are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with some delicious side dishes to make it even more satisfying. Some popular side dishes include Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or even some hummus and pita chips. These side dishes complement the flavors of the gyro and make it a complete and satisfying meal.
Pairing with Sides
Greek chicken gyros are a delicious and satisfying lunch option on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can take the meal to the next level. Here are a few ideas for sides that pair well with Greek chicken gyros:
Greek Salad
A classic Greek salad is a perfect side dish for chicken gyros. Made with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, and topped with feta cheese and a simple vinaigrette, a Greek salad is a refreshing and flavorful complement to the rich and savory flavors of the gyros.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meal. Simply toss the vegetables with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. The sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs well with the tangy and savory flavors of the chicken gyros.
Fries
For a more indulgent side dish, consider serving your chicken gyros with some crispy fries. Whether you opt for classic French fries or sweet potato fries, the salty and crispy texture of the fries is a perfect contrast to the soft and chewy pita bread and tender grilled chicken.
Tzatziki and Hummus
If you’re looking for a dip to serve alongside your chicken gyros, tzatziki and hummus are both great options. Tzatziki is a creamy yogurt-based dip flavored with garlic, lemon, and dill, while hummus is a chickpea-based dip flavored with tahini, garlic, and lemon. Both dips add a cool and refreshing element to the meal and pair well with the bold flavors of the chicken gyros.
In conclusion, there are many sides that pair well with Greek chicken gyros, from fresh salads to indulgent fries to creamy dips. Choose the sides that best fit your tastes and dietary preferences, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Storing and Reheating
After enjoying a delicious Greek chicken gyro, you may have some leftovers that you want to store properly for later consumption. The good news is that storing and reheating chicken gyros is easy and convenient.
To store leftover chicken gyros, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid storing the tzatziki sauce with the chicken gyros as it can make the bread soggy. Instead, store the sauce separately in a small airtight container.
When it comes to reheating chicken gyros, there are several ways to do it. One way is to reheat the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F, wrap the chicken gyro in foil, and place it in the oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Another way is to reheat the chicken gyro in the microwave. Place the chicken gyro on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 30 seconds at a time until it’s heated through.
It’s important to note that reheating the chicken gyro too many times can cause it to dry out and lose its flavor. Therefore, it’s best to only reheat it once and consume it immediately.
Overall, storing and reheating chicken gyros is a simple process that can help you enjoy this delicious meal even after it’s been prepared.
Nutritional Information
Greek Chicken Gyros are a delicious and healthy lunch option that can be enjoyed by many. This dish is packed with nutrients that can help support a healthy lifestyle. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for this dish:
- Calories: A typical serving of Greek Chicken Gyros contains around 400-500 calories. This is a relatively low-calorie meal that can help support weight loss goals.
- Protein: Greek Chicken Gyros are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. A serving of this dish contains around 30-40 grams of protein.
- Carbohydrates: Pita bread is the primary source of carbohydrates in this dish. A serving of Greek Chicken Gyros contains around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates.
- Fat: Greek Chicken Gyros are relatively low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the chicken and tzatziki sauce. A serving of this dish contains around 10-15 grams of fat.
- Fiber: The vegetables in this dish, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber, are excellent sources of fiber. A serving of Greek Chicken Gyros contains around 5-7 grams of fiber.
Overall, Greek Chicken Gyros are a healthy and nutritious lunch option that can help support a healthy lifestyle. This dish is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with essential nutrients.
Tips for Perfect Gyros
To make the perfect Greek chicken gyro, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, marinating the chicken in Greek yogurt and spices overnight can help infuse the meat with flavor and keep it tender.
When grilling the chicken, be sure to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked. Slicing the chicken thinly against the grain can also help make it more tender and easier to eat.
When assembling the gyro, it’s important to use fresh ingredients. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and crunchy cucumbers can add texture and flavor to the sandwich.
The tzatziki sauce is a crucial component of a gyro. To make the perfect tzatziki, use Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Be sure to strain the yogurt and cucumber to remove excess moisture for a thicker and creamier sauce.
To assemble the gyro, warm the pita bread in the oven or on a grill, then add the chicken, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. To keep the gyro from falling apart, wrap it tightly in foil or parchment paper before serving.
By following these tips, anyone can make a delicious and authentic Greek chicken gyro at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a traditional Greek chicken gyro?
To make a traditional Greek chicken gyro, marinate chicken in a mixture of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for at least an hour. Then, grill the chicken until it is cooked through and slice it into thin pieces. Warm up pita bread, add the chicken, tomatoes, lettuce, red onions, and tzatziki sauce, and wrap it all up.
What are some easy chicken gyro recipes for lunch?
There are many easy chicken gyro recipes available online. One simple recipe involves marinating chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt for at least 30 minutes. Grill the chicken until it is cooked through, slice it into thin pieces, and wrap it up in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, and tzatziki sauce.
What ingredients are needed for a simple chicken gyros marinade?
A simple chicken gyros marinade typically includes Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a variety of spices such as oregano, thyme, and paprika. Salt and pepper are also added for seasoning.
Can you make a chicken gyros marinade without using yogurt?
Yes, you can make a chicken gyros marinade without using yogurt. Instead, you can use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a variety of spices such as oregano, thyme, and paprika. Salt and pepper can also be added for seasoning.
What are the typical seasonings used in chicken gyros?
The typical seasonings used in chicken gyros include oregano, thyme, paprika, garlic, and lemon juice. Salt and pepper are also added for seasoning.
What are suitable side dishes to serve with chicken gyros?
Suitable side dishes to serve with chicken gyros include Greek salad, roasted vegetables, hummus, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread.