Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros recipe offers a delicious and effortless way to enjoy tender, flavorful Mediterranean-style chicken. Marinated in a zesty blend of Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic spices, the chicken slowly cooks to juicy perfection. Served in warm pita bread and topped with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce, it’s an ultimate family-friendly meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Serving
- Pita bread or wraps
- Fresh vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion)
- Tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. This blend creates a vibrant, tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with authentic Mediterranean flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated to maximize flavor absorption.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork. The slow cooking process locks in moisture and deepens the flavors.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, perfect for filling pitas.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm your pita bread or wraps. Layer with the shredded chicken, then add fresh sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions to add crispness and freshness.
- Finish with Tzatziki Sauce: Drizzle generously with cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. This classic Greek sauce adds moisture and tang, completing the authentic gyro experience.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the assembled chicken gyros warm with your favorite sides. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier gyro, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute pita bread with gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves.
- Make tzatziki sauce ahead of time to allow flavors to meld nicely.
- Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill can enhance the freshness of your gyros.
