Description
Enjoy Mediterranean chicken gyros topped with creamy feta tzatziki! This flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts – Cut into strips. Chicken provides a lean protein base that absorbs the marinade’s flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For marinating the chicken and grilling, offering a rich flavor and healthy fats.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for brightness and acidity that enhances the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced, adding a robust aroma and depth of flavor to the chicken.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – A classic herb in Mediterranean cooking, it brings an earthy, fragrant note.
- 1 tsp cumin – Adds warmth and a slight earthiness to the marinade, balancing the acidity of lemon.
- Salt & pepper – To taste, essential for enhancing all other flavors.
For the Feta Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – Provides a creamy base packed with protein.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta – Adds tangy richness that characterizes the tzatziki.
- 1 small cucumber – Grated, contributing a refreshing crunch and moisture to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced, for depth and flavor balance in the sauce.
- 2 tbsp fresh dill – A fragrant herb that enhances the tzatziki’s freshness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Increases brightness and complements the creamy elements.
- Salt & pepper – To taste, essential for flavor enhancement.
For assembling the gyros:
- 4 pita or flatbreads – The vessel for all the delicious filling.
- 1 cup chopped lettuce – For crunch and freshness.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes – Adds sweetness and juiciness.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion – For a sharp bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy tzatziki.
- Fresh parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified. Add 1 lb chicken breasts cut into strips and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a medium grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Prepare the tzatziki: In a bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, 1 small grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and refrigerate until needed to allow flavors to blend.
- Assemble the gyros: Warm 4 pita or flatbreads on the grill or stovetop for a few seconds on each side. On each pita, layer with 1 cup chopped lettuce, the grilled chicken, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, and 1/4 cup diced red onion. Drizzle generously with the prepared tzatziki.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Gyros!