ground chicken gyro recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ground chicken gyro recipe

I’ve always been a fan of traditional Greek cuisine, and the ground chicken gyro recipe is one of my family’s favorite dishes. It’s a classic combination of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. The crispy outside and juicy inside of the gyro meat, wrapped in a warm pita bread with a tangy tzatziki sauce, is a match made in heaven.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the ease with which it can be prepared at home. By using ground chicken instead of traditional lamb or beef, we can make this dish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. As a busy mom, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is.

It’s great for meal prep, as the gyro meat can be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. And when I’m feeling adventurous, I love experimenting with different toppings and fillings to keep things interesting. One of the best things about this recipe is the health benefits it provides.

By using lean ground chicken and plenty of fresh vegetables, we can enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling guilty. Plus, the whole family loves helping out in the kitchen – from assembling the gyros to making their own tzatziki sauce. But what really makes this recipe special is its roots in Greek cuisine.

The combination of flavors and techniques has been passed down through generations, and it’s wonderful to experience that history firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project with the kids, this ground chicken gyro recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Ground Chicken Gyro

4.6 from 1113 votes

A flavorful twist on the classic Greek gyro using seasoned ground chicken, cooked to perfection and served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce. This recipe brings the taste of a Mediterranean street food favorite to your home kitchen.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ground Chicken Mixture

1 lb ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt to taste

For Serving

4 large pita breads or flatbreads
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded lettuce

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, ensuring the spices are well distributed throughout the meat.
3Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
4Add the seasoned ground chicken mixture and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the chicken is browned and cooked through with no pink remaining.
5While the chicken cooks, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, squeezed dry grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill in a small bowl.
6Stir well and season with salt to taste, then set aside.
7Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until they are soft and pliable.
8Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
9To assemble each gyro, place a warm pita on a plate and spoon a generous portion of the cooked ground chicken mixture down the center.
10Top with cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and shredded lettuce, then drizzle with the prepared tzatziki sauce.
11Fold the sides of the pita over the filling and serve immediately while warm.
12Enjoy the gyro with extra tzatziki on the side if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Box grater
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Small bowl
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pita bread or lettuce wraps. The ground chicken mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Squeeze the grated cucumber thoroughly to remove excess moisture for a thicker tzatziki.

Watch Video Of How Ground Chicken Gyro Works

This ground chicken gyro recipe has become one of our go-to meals for any occasion – whether we’re hosting family gatherings or just need something quick on a weeknight. One of my favorite parts about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes.

Need something more substantial? Add some extra ingredients like rice or roasted vegetables.

Want something lighter? Opt for fewer toppings and focus on the flavors within each component.

One thing’s for sure – this recipe will never get old! With its rich history and versatility in preparation and presentation options, ground chicken gyro recipe is sure to remain a staple in our household (and yours too!)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Chicken Gyro

Q: What type of meat should I use for gyros?

For traditional gyros, you’ll want to use lamb or beef. However, ground chicken is a great alternative for those looking for a leaner option or who prefer poultry.

Q: Can I make tzatziki sauce from scratch?

Yes! Tzatziki sauce is made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. Simply combine these ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until chilled.

Q: How do I keep my gyro meat moist?

Make sure to not overcook the meat, as this can cause it to dry out. Also, consider adding some oil or fat to the pan while cooking to keep things moist.

Q: Can I use pre-made pita bread for gyros?

While pre-made pita bread can be convenient, homemade pita bread is always preferred for its fresh flavor and texture.

Q: What are some good toppings for gyros?

Tomato, red onion, feta cheese, olives – these are all great options to add some extra flavor to your gyros.

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