Greek Chicken Gyros can offer several health and nutritional benefits when prepared with the right ingredients and portion sizes. Here are some potential benefits:
1. Lean Protein: Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass. Protein also helps you feel fuller for longer, which can aid in weight management.
2. Essential Nutrients: Chicken is a good source of various essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells, as well as selenium, which acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function.
3. Low in Fat: Compared to other meats, chicken is relatively low in fat, especially if you remove the skin before cooking. This makes Greek Chicken Gyros a healthier option compared to gyros made with fattier meats like lamb or beef.
4. Fiber and Nutrients from Vegetables: Traditional Greek Chicken Gyros are often served with a variety of vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. These vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
5. Whole Grains: Some Greek Chicken Gyros are served in pita bread, which can be made with whole grain flour. Whole grains are higher in fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains, providing sustained energy and supporting digestive health.
6. Mediterranean Ingredients: Greek cuisine often includes ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano and parsley. These ingredients offer health benefits, such as heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil, anti-inflammatory properties from herbs, and vitamin C from lemon juice.
To maximize the health benefits of Greek Chicken Gyros, it’s essential to pay attention to portion sizes, choose lean cuts of chicken, and incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables. Additionally, homemade gyros allow you to control the amount of added salt and unhealthy fats, making them a healthier option compared to commercially prepared versions.
Greek Chicken Gyros
Ingredients:
2 lbs chicken thigh fillets, boneless skinless
3 large garlic cloves, minced (~ 3 tsp)
1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or red wine or apple cider vinegar)
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
Black pepper
2 cucumbers (to make about 1/2 – 3/4 cup grated cucumber after squeezing out juice)
1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt, preferably full fat
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 tsp salt
Black pepper
3 tomatoes, deseeded and diced
3 cucumbers, diced
1/2 red spanish onion, peeled and finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional)
Salt and pepper
4 to 6 pita breads or flat breads
Directions:
Place the Marinade ingredients in a ziplock bag and massage to mix. Add the chicken into the ziplock bag and massage to cover all the chicken in the Marinade. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably 3 hours, ideally 12 hours and no longer than 24 hours.
Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scrape the watery seeds out. Coarsely grate the cucumber using a box grater. Then wrap in paper towels or a tea towel and squeeze to remove excess liquid.
Place cucumber in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients then mix to combine. Set aside for at least 20 minutes for the flavours to meld.
Combine Salad ingredients in a bowl.
Brush the outdoor grill with oil, then preheat on medium high. Or heat 1 tbsp of oil in a fry pan over medium high heat.
Remove chicken from Marinade. Cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (cooking time depends on size of chicken).
Remove the chicken from the grill / fry pan onto a plate. Cover loosely with foil and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Get a pita bread or flatbread (preferably warmed) and place it on a piece of parchment (baking) paper (or you could use foil). Place some Salad down the middle of the bread, then top with chicken and Tzatziki.
Roll the wrap up, enclosing it with the parchment paper. Twist the end with the excess parchment paper to secure it and cut if desired.
I prefer to lay everything out on a table and let everyone help themselves.
Certainly! Here are some tips for making delicious Greek Chicken Gyros:
1. Marinate the chicken: To infuse the chicken with flavor, marinate it for at least 1-2 hours or overnight before cooking. Use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for an authentic Greek taste.
2. Choose boneless, skinless chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option. Remove any visible fat to reduce the overall fat content.
3. Grill or bake the chicken: Grilling or baking the chicken is a healthier cooking method compared to frying. It reduces the amount of added fat while still achieving a delicious charred flavor. If grilling, preheat the grill and cook the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through. If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked.
4. Slice the chicken thinly: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into thin strips. This will make it easier to assemble the gyros and create a more enjoyable eating experience.
5. Prepare the tzatziki sauce: Tzatziki is a classic Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce that adds a refreshing element to the gyros. To make it, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill or mint, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add fresh vegetables: Include a variety of fresh vegetables in your gyro for added texture, flavor, and nutrition. Common choices include lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and sliced bell peppers. You can also add some olives or crumbled feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flair.
7. Warm the pita bread: Warm the pita bread before assembling the gyros. You can lightly toast it on a grill, warm it in the oven, or quickly heat it in a skillet. This step ensures that the pita is pliable and enhances the overall taste and texture of the gyros.
8. Assemble and wrap: Lay the warmed pita bread flat and spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on it. Place a layer of sliced chicken on top, followed by the fresh vegetables. Fold the sides of the pita over the filling, then roll it tightly into a wrap.
9. Serve with optional sides: Greek Chicken Gyros pair well with traditional Greek sides such as Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or seasoned rice. These sides add variety, flavor, and additional nutrients to your meal.
Remember, portion control is important even with healthy meals. Enjoy your Greek Chicken Gyros in moderation as part of a balanced diet.