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Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros

slow cooker chicken gyros - featured image

A hands-off slow cooker recipe delivering tender, flavorful chicken gyros with Mediterranean spices, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 6 soft pita pockets (whole wheat or white)
  • Sliced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh parsley for toppings
  • About 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture until well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
  2. Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the meat (not directly on top). Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender and juicy.
  3. Use two forks or tongs to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir to mix the shredded meat with the juices and onions.
  4. Warm the pita bread by wrapping in foil and heating in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or toast lightly on a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
  5. Fill each warm pita with shredded chicken, then top with sliced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, fresh parsley, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Roll or fold gently and serve immediately.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juiciness; breasts may dry out. Marinate for deeper flavor. Warm pita in oven or skillet. Leftover chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Reduce slow cooker juices on stove if too thin.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken gyros, easy dinner, Mediterranean, healthy, weeknight meal, slow cooked chicken, tzatziki, pita