Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Gyros
Craving a delicious and easy meal that will take you to Greece? These slow cooker Greek chicken gyros will do the trick!
Tender and flavorful chicken, tangy tzatziki sauce, and all the traditional fixings make this recipe a mouthwatering Greek feast.
What’s more, it’s made in the slow cooker so you can set it and forget it until dinnertime.
Impress your family and friends with this delicious meal!
Background
Tracing its roots back to the Ottoman Empire, the Greek chicken gyro is a tantalizing dish with a rich cultural history. The word ‘gyro’, which means ‘turn’ in Greek, refers to the method of preparing the meat. Traditional slices of marinated chicken are skewered and slowly roasted on a vertical rotisserie, allowing the juices to drip down while the outer layer becomes crispy and flavorful.
Over time, the gyro evolved to incorporate a variety of fillings, such as vegetables, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread, creating a unique and delicious mix of flavors and textures. Nowadays, Greek chicken gyros have gained immense popularity around the world, both for their deliciousness and cultural significance, which represent the vibrant culinary heritage of Greece.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
Instructions
Begin by evenly spreading the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Here are the steps to make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Gyros:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure all sides are coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Take the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Serve the shredded chicken on warm pita bread with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and tzatziki sauce.
Enjoy these flavorful and simple Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Gyros!
Tips for Cooking
Now that you have the chicken shredded and ready to go, let’s look into some helpful tips for cooking Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Gyros. Here are three suggestions to ensure your gyros turn out perfectly:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Let the chicken marinate overnight for maximum flavor. In a resealable bag, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices and keep the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours. |
| 2 | Utilize a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. Lining the pot prevents messy cleanup after slow cooking. |
| 3 | Toast the pita bread before assembling the gyros. A pleasing crunch and enhanced taste can be achieved by simply warming a skillet over medium heat and toasting the pita for a few seconds on each side. |
Final Thoughts
To end, take pleasure in the flavors and savor the satisfaction of making your own Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Gyros. The blend of succulent chicken, fragrant herbs, and zesty Tzatziki sauce is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Bite into that first piece and let the flavors take you to the streets of Greece, where these gyros are a beloved street food. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is moist and steeped with all the Mediterranean flavors.
The ease of this recipe allows you to concentrate on the quality of the ingredients and the craft of slow cooking. So, gather your family, indulge in the rich flavors, and bask in the joy of making a homemade meal that will have everyone asking for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe, Such as Beef or Pork?
Yes, you can definitely switch out the type of meat for this recipe. Whether you decide to use beef or pork, be sure to adjust the cooking time to make sure it’s cooked through and flavorful. Enjoy your homemade gyros!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly?
To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly, you can swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Utilize vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt With a Dairy-Free Alternative?
Yes, you can swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative. This will make the recipe suitable for vegans. Just pick a dairy-free yogurt that has a similar texture and taste.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes to Serve With These Greek Chicken Gyros?
You can make your Greek chicken gyros meal complete with a variety of side dishes. Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, hummus, pita bread, roasted vegetables, or a cucumber and tomato salad are all recommended options. Enjoy!
Can I Freeze the Leftovers and Reheat Them Later?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers and reheat them later. It is an easy way to enjoy the gyros at a later time. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain freshness. Follow these tips to ensure your leftovers taste just as good as when you first made them.
