Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Sauce
Description:
This recipe brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate with tender grilled chicken marinated in a lemon-herb blend, wrapped in warm pita and topped with a tangy, creamy feta sauce. Finished with crisp vegetables, this gyro is both satisfying and refreshingly light.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground coriander
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Creamy Feta Sauce:
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely grated
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Gyro Assembly:
4–6 pita breads or flatbreads
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced cucumbers
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: sliced olives, banana peppers, or hummus
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken (Prep: 10 mins | Marinate: 1–4 hrs):
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken, coat well, cover, and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Make the Creamy Feta Sauce (Prep: 5 mins):
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dill.
Blend with a fork or pulse in a food processor until smooth but slightly chunky. Season to taste.
3. Cook the Chicken (Cook: 10–12 mins):
Grill or Pan Method: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
4. Assemble the Gyros (Assemble: 5 mins):
Warm pita bread in a pan or microwave.
Spread feta sauce over the pita.
Add sliced chicken and top with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and any optional toppings.
Fold and serve warm.
Total Time:
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10–12 minutes
Marinate: 1–4 hour
Assemble: 5 minute
Total (active): 30 minutes
Total (with marinating): Up to 4.5 hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 450–500 kcal
Protein 35–40g
Carbohydrates 30–35g
Fat 20–25g
Fiber 3–5g
Sodium 700–900mg
Sugar 4–6g
(Values depend on portion sizes and pita type.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: Can I make this gyro ahead of time?
A: You can marinate and cook the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble gyros fresh for best texture.
Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The filling is gluten-free. Use gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps for a fully gluten-free version.
Q3: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked, flipping halfway through.
Q4: What’s a good vegetarian alternative?
A: Try grilled halloumi, falafel, or roasted chickpeas as a substitute.
Q5: How can I make this lower in fat?
A: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and feta, and grill the chicken withou
t added oil.
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