Get ready to embark on a culinary journey with these mouthwatering Chicken Gyros that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece! Juicy chicken marinated in a bright blend of Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices, served in warm pita bread or over a crisp salad—this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Budget Information
This Chicken Gyro recipe costs approximately $14.00 in total, which breaks down to about $3.50 per serving. Here’s a quick look at the cost of each ingredient:
– Whole Milk Greek Yogurt: $1.50
– Garlic: $0.50
– Lemon: $0.75
– Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs): $6.00
– Spices (salt, cumin, onion powder, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, red pepper flakes): $1.50
– Pita Bread (4 pieces): $2.00
– Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, tzatziki): $2.00
Total: $14.00
Why This Recipe Works
This Chicken Gyro recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The secret? Marinating the chicken in a rich Greek yogurt blend gives it an incredible flavor and succulent texture. Plus, you can serve it in so many ways—tuck it in a pita, pile it on a salad, or savor it straight from the grill. The marinade can be whipped up in minutes, and the cooking time is quick, making it a convenient, feel-good meal!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need for this delectable Chicken Gyro recipe:
- Whole Milk Greek Yogurt ($1.50) – If you prefer, you can use nonfat or a dairy-free version for a lighter or lactose-free option.
- Garlic ($0.50) – Fresh garlic delivers a fantastic punch, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Lemon ($0.75) – Fresh lemon juice and zest elevate the dish, but bottled lemon juice works if you’re in a hurry.
- Chicken Thighs ($6.00) – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great alternative and will work just as well.
- Spices ($1.50) – Cumin, onion powder, sweet paprika, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes create a warm, aromatic blend. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Pita Bread ($2.00) – Swap it with flatbread or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Optional Toppings ($2.00) – Lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki. You can mix and match or even add olives or feta cheese!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine a generous amount of whole milk Greek yogurt, finely minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, and all your spices including cumin, onion powder, sweet paprika, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Give it a good stir to create a creamy, fragrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with layer upon layer of flavor. Now, add the chicken thighs, making sure every piece is generously coated and feeling that zesty love. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a flavor bomb!
Step 2: Once your chicken is well-marinated, it’s time to cook! If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F. Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket (it might be best to do this in batches). Air fry those beauties for about 20 to 24 minutes. Flip them halfway through so they can crisp up and get all the goodness on both sides. The result? Juicy sautéed pieces that are aromatic and ready for action!
Step 3: If you prefer the grill or skillet method, heat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway to get that lovely char. Nothing beats the smoky flavor from grilling, so if the weather allows, I highly recommend going this route!
Step 4: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection and has an internal temperature of at least 165°F, transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing it into delectable strips. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite stays tender and moist.
Step 5: Now, it’s assembly time! Grab your warm, fluffy pita bread and fill it generously with sliced chicken. You can layer in fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, slices of juicy tomato, and drizzle it all with tzatziki—or even homemade hummus—for that ultimate Greek touch!
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 365 kcal
– Protein: 54 g
– Carbohydrates: 8 g
– Total Fat: 12 g
– Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
– Cholesterol: 244 mg
– Fiber: 2 g
– Sugar: 3 g
– Sodium: 540.5 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store your chicken gyros in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through. Trust me—this dish is just as divine cold when tossed on a salad!
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Gyros are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways! Try them in pita pockets with all the fixings, spoon them over a vibrant Greek salad packed with cucumbers, red onions, and olives, or top your favorite grain bowl. They also stand out beautifully with creamy tzatziki or a dollop of baba ganoush. Get creative and mix and match with sides like grilled vegetables or tabbouleh for a complete Mediterranean feast!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feel free to customize the spices in your marinade based on what you have in your pantry. You can even add a splash of hot sauce for some extra kick! Remember, marinating the chicken overnight makes a monumental difference in flavor, so don’t skip that step if you can help it. And if you’re feeling ambitious, whip up some homemade tzatziki to really impress your family or friends!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can! Chicken breasts will also work well, though they may need less time on the grill or in the air fryer.
How long can I marinate the chicken? Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can let it sit overnight for even better flavor. Just don’t go beyond 36 hours as the chicken might get too mushy.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, a non-dairy yogurt can be substituted, or you can use sour cream for a similar tang.
Can I grill these directly? Absolutely! Just ensure your grill is hot and prepped to make those beautiful grill marks appear, and you’ll have an even more charred flavor.
What toppings do you recommend? Classic toppings include sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of tzatziki. Feta cheese and olives are also great additions!
