Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros. I still remember the first time I made these at home; the aroma of spices filled the air, and I could hardly wait for dinner time. Picture this: it’s a busy weekday, and after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when my trusty slow cooker comes to the rescue! Just toss everything in, and let it work its magic while you unwind. I love that it’s not only effortless but also delivers the succulent, flavorful chicken that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Serve it with some fresh veggies, a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros, the ingredients come together in a harmonious way to create a satisfying meal. The core of this recipe lies in the succulent ground chicken and a blend of aromatic spices that elevate the flavors to new heights. Fresh vegetables add crunch and brightness, while the creamy yogurt sauce brings everything together beautifully.

• 1/2 small onion – Adds moisture and sweetness to the mix.
• 3 garlic cloves – Infuses the chicken with aromatic goodness.
• 2 pounds ground chicken – The main protein that absorbs all the flavors.
• 2 eggs, whisked – Helps bind everything together for a perfect consistency.
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs – Adds texture and absorbs the juices.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested – Brightens the dish with a fresh zing.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Offers a herbaceous note that complements the chicken.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – Enhances the seasoning with its unique aroma.
• 2 teaspoons salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Prevents sticking and adds richness.
• 12 whole-wheat naan bread or pita bread rounds, 6 inch – The perfect vessel for your gyros.
• 1 tomato, chopped – Freshness that balances the flavors.
• 1 cucumber, sliced – Adds crunch and a refreshing contrast.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, low-fat, plain – The creamy topping that brings everything together.
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges – For an extra zing when serving.

The Method for Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros

Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros is a breeze, and the steps are simple yet rewarding. Follow along as I guide you through creating this incredible dish. Trust me, once you start, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve such great results!

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. In a food processor, pulse the onion and garlic until they are pureed. This will ensure they blend well into the chicken mixture, adding a rich flavor base.

2. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the onion puree, ground chicken, eggs, breadcrumbs, lemon juice and zest, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully.

3. Once mixed, form the chicken mixture into a large ball. This helps create a cohesive shape that will cook evenly. Place the ball in a 4-quart crockpot that has been drizzled with olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. You have the option to cook on high for 4 to 6 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to deepen, making the chicken incredibly tender.

5. About 30 minutes before serving, unplug the crockpot and remove the lid. This is important as it allows the gyros to set, making them easier to slice later on. You want to ensure they hold their shape.

6. When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the meat from the slow cooker. It should be tender and easy to slice. Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut it into nice slices.

7. Finally, serve the sliced chicken on warmed pita bread or naan. Top with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a generous dollop of Greek yogurt. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish, and enjoy!

Make It Your Own

Once you’ve mastered the basic Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros, feel free to play around with it to suit your tastes! Here are some tips to customize your dish:

• Add more vegetables: Include bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.
• Consider different breads: Serve with pita, flatbreads, or even over a salad for a lighter option.
• Top with feta: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that complements the dish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken gyros for up to three months; just be sure to thaw before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.

Serve This Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros With

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros, there are plenty of delicious options to complement your meal. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A Mediterranean salad with olives, feta, and a light dressing pairs perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try serving with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.
• Chips: Serve with pita chips or baked chips for a crunchy side.
• Sandwich Style: Stack the gyro fixings into a sandwich for a fun twist.
• Lunch Option: Excellent for lunch leftovers, just reheat and enjoy.
• Meal Prep: Pack for a hearty meal on the go during the week.
• Seasonal Pairings: Great for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. I encourage you to try making these gyros for your next dinner. You’ll find that they’re easy to prepare and will impress everyone at the table. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe!

Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce come together for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, make this tonight for a delicious experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 small onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 2 eggs eggs whisked
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs plain
• 1 lemon lemon juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 12 whole-wheat naan bread or pita bread rounds bread 6 inch
• 1 tomato tomato chopped
• 1 cucumber cucumber sliced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt low-fat, plain
• 1 lemon lemon cut into wedges

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon
• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. In a food processor, pulse onion and garlic until pureed.
2. In a large bowl, stir together onion puree, ground chicken, eggs, breadcrumbs, lemon (juice and zest), thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix together until well combined.
3. Form into a large ball and place in a 4-quart crockpot which has been drizzled with olive oil. Cover and cook for 4-6 hours on high, or 6-8 hours on low.
4. Unplug crockpot and remove lid 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the gyros to set and cut into nice slices.
5. When ready to serve, remove meat from the slow cooker. Slice and serve on warmed pita bread topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, yogurt, and fresh-squeezed lemon juice. Enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken gyros for up to three months; just be sure to thaw before reheating.
• Variations: Consider adding bell peppers or using different spices.

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.