Today, we're excited to share a delightful recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your home. Our Homemade Greek Chicken Gyros Recipe is a nourishing, flavorful journey that's perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or any time you crave something special and nutritious. Let's get started!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Chicken:
800g Chicken
For the Marinade:
500g Greek Yogurt
2 fresh lemons (juiced) or lemon juice
100ml olive oil
2 tbsp garlic
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp sweet paprika
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp ground cinnamon
To Serve:
Salad of your choice
Fries
Pitta breads or flatbreads
Nutritional Values Per Serving:
The nutritional value will vary by the ingredients that you use, so please use this as a guideline. At the end of the recipe we have added some ways you can adjust this recipe to fit your personal nutrition goals, including how to increase or lower your calorie intake or increase the total protein per serving.
Calories: 750
Protein: 40g
Fat: 33g
Carbs: 76g
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by mixing all your marinade ingredients together in a large bowl or a container with a lid. This aromatic blend of Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and a medley of spices sets the stage for our flavorful gyros. Next, butterfly your chicken breasts. Place them between parchment paper and gently flatten them using your hand or a rolling pin. Submerge the chicken in the marinade, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, or up to 24 hours for a deeper infusion of flavors. The longer, the better!
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated to perfection, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully stack the chicken breasts onto skewers, pressing them tightly together to form a compact kebab. Place the skewers in an oven-proof dish and bake for approximately 2 hours, or until fully cooked and juicy. Your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of Greek spices!
Step 3: Prep the Sides
As your chicken nears completion, pop your fries into the oven. This is also the perfect time to prepare any salads or sauces you wish to serve alongside your gyros. Fresh, crisp veggies and a tangy tzatziki sauce are wonderful accompaniments.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken and Warm the Bread
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period ensures the juices are sealed in, making your gyros even more succulent. Meanwhile, warm your pitta breads or flat breads to prepare for serving.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy
Bring the beautifully cooked kebab to the table and carve it into thin, tender slices with a serrated knife. Pile the juicy chicken into the warm pitta breads, add your chosen salads and sauces, and serve with a side of crispy fries. Gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of homemade Greek chicken gyros!
Variations:
Increase Your Calories:
Use higher fat chicken (e.g., chicken thighs)
Add cheese
Use full fat Greek yogurt
Decrease Your Calories:
Use skinless, chicken breast meat and remove all fat before marinading
Remove the olive oil from the marinade
Load up your gyros with fresh vegetables
Make your own fries or remove the fries
Increase Your Protein:
Increase the amount of chicken per serving
Serve with protein-rich sides (such as a quinoa salad)
There you have it – a heartwarming and nourishing Greek chicken gyros recipe that's sure to become a favorite in your home. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as we do. Remember, cooking is a journey best enjoyed with loved ones, and every meal is an opportunity to create cherished memories.
Happy cooking!