Name: Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 22 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.75 pounds chicken tenderloins (or up to 2 pounds of chicken tenders); 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (can substitute distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar); 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken); 1 batch homemade tzatziki sauce; 6 pita breads (warmed by skillet or oven); 3 tomatoes (sliced); 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced); Baby spinach or lettuce (optional)

Description

This Greek Chicken Gyros recipe features tender chicken tenderloins marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil, then cooked on a skillet to juicy perfection. Served with warm pita bread, fresh tomatoes, red onions, baby spinach, and a homemade tzatziki sauce, these gyros offer a delicious taste of Greek cuisine that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

1.75 pounds chicken tenderloins (or up to 2 pounds of chicken tenders)
1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (can substitute distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)

Assembly

1 batch homemade tzatziki sauce
6 pita breads (warmed by skillet or oven)
3 tomatoes (sliced)
1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
Baby spinach or lettuce (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a ziplock bag, combine the minced garlic, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat to coat thoroughly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours; ideally 12 hours but not exceeding 24 hours for optimum flavor and tenderness.
Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken tenderloins in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches between 160°F and 165°F, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
Warm the Pita Bread: While the chicken cooks, warm the pita breads either by heating on a skillet for 1-2 minutes per side or placing them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 250°F for about 10 minutes until soft and pliable.
Assemble the Gyros: Spread a generous layer of homemade tzatziki sauce on each warmed pita. Add a handful of fresh baby spinach or lettuce, several slices of tomato and red onion, and finally top with cooked chicken tenderloins. Fold or roll the pita to enclose the fillings.
Serve: Serve the gyros immediately while warm for the best taste and texture. Enjoy this classic Greek street food in your own kitchen!

Notes

Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours enhances flavor, but marinating overnight develops the best taste and tenderness.
If you don’t have homemade tzatziki, store-bought versions work well as a convenient alternative.
To keep the pita warm and soft, cover them with a clean kitchen towel after warming.
The chicken can be cooked on a grill as an alternative to skillet cooking for a smokier flavor.
Optionally add other toppings like cucumber slices, feta cheese, or olives for more authenticity.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Greek