why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is a delicious and easy meal that brings a taste of Greece to your kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. The chicken is tender and full of flavor, and the cool Tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch. This recipe is not only satisfying but also healthier than traditional gyros, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a tasty meal without the extra calories.
how to make Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
To make Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros, you will need a few simple ingredients. Start by gathering the following:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and place the chicken breasts inside.
- In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, diced onion, water, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, allspice, and lemon pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the Tzatziki sauce. Mix all sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Serve the shredded chicken with warm pocketless pita bread, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, sliced cucumbers, lettuce, and the prepared Tzatziki sauce.
how to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
You can serve Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros in several delicious ways. Start by placing the shredded chicken on a warm plate. Add slices of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers around it. Offer pocketless pita bread for wrapping or as a side. Drizzle the homemade Tzatziki sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. It makes a colorful and appetizing meal that everyone will love.
how to store Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can be kept for up to 3 days, while the Tzatziki sauce can also last about a week. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if it seems dry. Always check the Tzatziki sauce for freshness before using, especially if it has been stored for a few days.
tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
For a tastier dish, marinate the chicken in the mixture overnight. This will enhance the flavors even more. You can also add other spices based on your preference, like paprika or cumin, for a slight twist. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the Tzatziki sauce; they make a huge difference in flavor. Lastly, consider preparing a larger batch so you can savor these gyros on another busy night or for lunch the next day!
variation
Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros by incorporating different vegetables. For example, you can add bell peppers, olives, or even feta cheese to the mix. If you prefer, you can use turkey breast or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each variation will provide a unique taste while keeping the essence of this delightful dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pita bread. Additionally, check that all sauces and condiments are gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
If you want more slow cooker recipes, check out this great resource for delicious ideas: crockpot recipes!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and easy meal that brings a taste of Greece to your kitchen, featuring tender chicken and a refreshing Tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and place the chicken breasts inside.
- Mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, diced onion, water, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, allspice, and lemon pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours.
- Prepare the Tzatziki sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Shred the cooked chicken in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Serve the shredded chicken with warm pocketless pita bread, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, sliced cucumbers, lettuce, and the prepared Tzatziki sauce.
Notes
For enhanced flavors, marinate the chicken overnight and use fresh ingredients for the Tzatziki sauce. Customize with different vegetables or protein alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
