Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. This process will infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderize it.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Drain Cucumber: After grating the cucumber, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out the excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a watery tzatziki sauce.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the drained cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Heat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Assemble the Gyros:
- Prepare Pitas: Warm the pita breads on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave until soft and pliable.
- Add Fillings: On each pita, lay down a bed of lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion. Add a generous amount of cooked chicken.
- Top with Tzatziki Sauce: Dollop each gyro with the prepared tzatziki sauce. For an extra touch of flavor, you can also add feta cheese and sliced olives if desired.
- Wrap and Serve: Carefully fold the pita around the fillings, and if necessary, wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to hold it together and catch any drips.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Gyros are best enjoyed immediately while the chicken is still warm and the pita bread soft. Serve with a side of Greek salad or crispy fries for a complete meal. For a communal dining experience, consider setting up a gyro station where everyone can assemble their own gyros according to their taste preferences.
Tips
- Alternative Cooking Methods: If outdoor grilling is not an option, a grill pan or regular skillet on the stove works well for cooking the chicken.
- Marinating Time: For the most flavorful chicken, allow it to marinate overnight. However, if you’re short on time, even an hour will make a significant difference.
- Customization: Feel free to add or substitute the vegetables based on what you have available or prefer. The beauty of gyros is their versatility.
This Chicken Gyros recipe brings the flavors of Greece right to your table, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing these gyros with family and friends.