Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe

Sliced chicken breast: Lean protein that forms the base of the gyros.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.

Dried oregano: Provides a classic Mediterranean flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a robust, savory taste to the marinade.

Paprika: Gives a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a bit of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Pita bread: Soft flatbread that holds all the delicious fillings.

Tzatziki sauce: Creamy, tangy sauce that complements the chicken and vegetables.

Diced tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, adding a burst of flavor.

Sliced red onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet crunch.

Shredded lettuce: Provides a fresh, crisp texture.

When marinating the chicken breast, ensure it is evenly coated with the olive oil and spice mixture. This can be achieved by using your hands to massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring that every piece is well-seasoned. Letting the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful gyro. Additionally, when cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and a nice sear on each piece.

• sliced chicken breast - Substitute with sliced tofu: Tofu is a versatile plant-based protein that absorbs flavors well and has a texture that can mimic chicken when cooked properly.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Thyme offers a similar earthy flavor that complements Mediterranean dishes.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and aromatic quality.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a slightly smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile that can add complexity.

• pita bread - Substitute with whole wheat wraps: Whole wheat wraps are a healthier alternative and provide a similar texture and function.

• tzatziki sauce - Substitute with vegan tzatziki sauce: Vegan tzatziki is made with plant-based yogurt and offers a similar creamy, tangy flavor.

• diced tomatoes - Substitute with diced cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and can add a burst of flavor and color.

• sliced red onion - Substitute with sliced green onion: Green onions provide a milder onion flavor and a fresh, crisp texture.

• shredded lettuce - Substitute with shredded kale: Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that adds a slightly different texture and more nutritional benefits.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the pita bread soggy.
• Store the cooked chicken separately from the vegetables and tzatziki sauce to maintain freshness and texture.
• Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Label with the date to keep track.
• To freeze the pita bread, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-lock bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months.
• Vegetables like diced tomatoes and sliced red onion should be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before using.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the chicken and pita bread in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Warm the pita bread in a skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
• Assemble the gyros just before serving to ensure all ingredients are fresh and flavorful.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the pita bread in aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 10 minutes until it’s warm and soft.
• For the chicken, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
• To reheat the tzatziki sauce, simply let it come to room temperature. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
• For the vegetables like tomatoes, red onion, and lettuce, it’s best to use them fresh. If they’ve been stored in the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before assembling your gyros.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper with the sliced chicken breast.

• Skillet: Heat this over medium heat to cook the marinated chicken until fully cooked.

• Spatula: This will help you stir and flip the chicken while it cooks in the skillet.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken breast, dicing the tomatoes, and slicing the red onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the chicken, tomatoes, and red onion.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken pieces in the skillet to ensure even cooking.

• Oven or additional skillet: Use either of these to warm the pita bread before assembling the gyros.

• Serving plate: Place the assembled gyros on this before serving.

• Spoon: Useful for spreading the tzatziki sauce on the pita bread.

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-chop vegetables: Dice the tomatoes, slice the red onion, and shred the lettuce ahead of time.

Use store-bought tzatziki: Opt for a high-quality, store-bought tzatziki sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Cook chicken in batches: If you have a large skillet, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Warm pita simultaneously: Warm the pita bread in the oven while cooking the chicken to streamline the process.