Herb-Infused Mediterranean Chicken Gyro

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s bursting with fresh flavors and a delightful balance of textures. The chicken is marinated with 25 different herbs, giving it a unique depth of flavor that’s savory, tangy, and aromatic. Coupled with crisp veggies and the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, each bite is a refreshing combination of freshness and warmth. It’s also a versatile dish, perfect for meal prepping, and is easy to adapt to your personal tastes. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious dish to impress guests, this Mediterranean gyro will hit the spot every time.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon dried dill

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon coriander

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon cloves

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 4 pita breads

• Fresh cucumber, sliced

• Fresh tomatoes, sliced

• Red onion, thinly sliced

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and all the dried herbs and spices (oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, basil, parsley, dill, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves). Mix well.

2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

4. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, chopped parsley, mint, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.

6. To assemble the gyros, place the grilled chicken on a pita, top with fresh cucumber slices, tomatoes, red onion, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.

7. Fold the pita around the filling and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. You can also use falafel for a plant-based option.

• Spicier version: Add extra cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the gyro for an added kick.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps instead of regular pita bread.

• Herb mix variations: Feel free to adjust the herb mix based on your personal preference—add herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a more classic Mediterranean flavor, or try experimenting with rosemary, sage, and marjoram.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken gyro in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken can also be stored separately and reheated for easy meal prep.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes or heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet to maintain the texture.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken for?

Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse, but for the best flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours.

Can I make this gyro in advance?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and store it in the refrigerator before grilling. You can also make the tzatziki sauce and prepare the veggies ahead of time for easy assembly.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Yes, if you’re in a pinch, store-bought tzatziki sauce is a fine alternative, though homemade will have a fresher flavor.

What is the best type of chicken for gyros?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, as they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Can I use a different protein in place of chicken?

Yes, lamb, beef, or turkey can also be used for a different flavor profile. You can also use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, or top the gyro with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I freeze the chicken for later?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Just make sure to store it in a sealed bag or container and freeze it for up to 3 months.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It’s best to cook the chicken on medium-high heat, ensuring it’s cooked through but not dry.

What should I serve with gyros?

You can serve gyros with a side of roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad to complement the fresh flavors.

How can I make my gyros more filling?

For a heartier meal, you can add extra protein, such as grilled lamb, or include a serving of hummus or feta cheese.

Conclusion

This 25 Herb-Infused Mediterranean Chicken Gyro recipe is an exciting way to explore the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. With tender, herb-marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy tzatziki sauce, it’s a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this gyro offers versatility in flavor and ingredient options to suit every taste. The combination of fresh herbs and spices will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast, making it a recipe worth trying again and again.

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