Instant Pot Chicken Gyros

The moment I first experienced the rich flavors of Instant Pot Chicken Gyros, I knew it would become a staple in my kitchen. It was a busy weeknight, and I craved something hearty yet simple. That’s when this recipe came to life, combining tender, spiced chicken with fresh toppings, all wrapped neatly in a warm pita. The magic of the Instant Pot makes this dish so incredibly quick and easy, allowing me to savor homemade gyros without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Now, every bite takes me back to that first delicious moment, reminding me of how a simple dish can bring joy and flavor into our lives.

What to Gather for Instant Pot Chicken Gyros

When it comes to crafting the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Gyros, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that authentic taste. The star players in this recipe include lean chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. Together, they blend to create a wholesome and satisfying dish that is bound to impress.

• 5 cloves garlic, smashed – A must-have for that aromatic base, adding depth to the overall flavor.
• 1 yellow onion, diced large – This brings sweetness and a wonderful texture.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice – A splash of acidity to brighten the dish.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
• 18 to 24 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breasts – The main protein source, tender and juicy.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – An essential herb for that Mediterranean flair.
• 2 teaspoons dried mint – Adds a refreshing twist.
• 1/2 cup cucumbers, shredded fine – For a cool crunch.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt – Creamy and tangy, it’s perfect for the gyro sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an extra garlic kick in the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice – For that zesty flavor boost in the yogurt sauce.
• 2 teaspoons olive oil – Adds richness.
• 3 teaspoons dry dill – Another Mediterranean herb that pairs beautifully.
• 4 whole-wheat pitas – The perfect vessel for all those delicious fillings.
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half – For a burst of sweetness and color.
• 2 tablespoons red onion, sliced into thin strips – A little crunch and zing.
• 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded – Adds freshness.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese – A traditional topping that brings creaminess.

Putting Together Instant Pot Chicken Gyros

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process of Instant Pot Chicken Gyros. This method is straightforward and yields scrumptious results!

1. Begin by placing all the prepared ingredients into the Instant Pot. This includes your smashed garlic, diced onion, chicken breasts, and all the spices. The magic happens when you let these flavors meld together under pressure, creating a beautiful aromatic base.

2. Next, secure the lid onto the pot. It’s crucial to ensure that it is sealed properly, and the steam release dial is pointed away from the vent. This step is essential for building pressure.

3. Now, press the “Poultry” button on your Instant Pot, followed by the “Adjust” button. You should see the high-pressure light illuminate. Use the “+” button to set the cooking time to twenty-five minutes. As it reaches pressure, the pot will pre-heat, which usually takes about fifteen minutes.

4. Once the cooking time is complete, be very careful as you vent the Instant Pot. Always remember that the steam is very hot! After releasing all the steam, you can safely open the lid. At this point, the chicken should be incredibly tender and easy to shred.

5. Keep the shredded chicken in the pot and stir it into the flavorful mixture of onions and spices. Allow it to remain warm while you prepare the sauce.

6. In a small bowl, take your shredded cucumbers and sprinkle them with salt. This will help draw out moisture. Set it aside for at least five minutes.

7. While the cucumber is resting, combine the remaining ingredients for the sauce: Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill. Mix well until it’s smooth and creamy.

8. After the five minutes, squeeze out any excess liquid from the cucumber and mix it into the yogurt sauce. This will give you a refreshing gyro sauce.

9. To assemble, take a warm pita and place about a quarter cup of the shredded chicken inside. Top it with one or two tablespoons of the delicious yogurt sauce.

10. Finish with your choice of toppings: add tomatoes, red onions, lettuce, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience.

11. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Instant Pot Chicken Gyros!

Customization Ideas

Making Instant Pot Chicken Gyros is just the beginning! Here are some fun ways to customize and elevate your dish.

• Try different proteins: Swap out the chicken for lamb, beef, or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas for variety.
• Experiment with sauces: You can create your own sauces like tzatziki, tahini, or spicy harissa for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to load up on vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it a salad: Instead of pitas, serve the chicken and toppings over a bed of greens for a lighter meal.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to give your gyros a kick.
• Try different breads: Use naan, lavash, or even lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.
• Pair with sides: Serve with sides like hummus, tabbouleh, or a Greek salad to make it a full meal.

Serving Options for Instant Pot Chicken Gyros

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Gyros, the options are plentiful and exciting. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish:

• Perfect for lunch: These gyros make an excellent choice for lunch, whether at home or packed for work. They’re filling and can be eaten on the go.
• Great for dinner gatherings: Serve gyros at your next family dinner or casual gathering. Set up a DIY gyro bar where everyone can customize their pitas.
• Ideal for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and portion them for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Seasonal pairings: In the summer, pair with fresh salads or grilled vegetables, while in winter, try with warm roasted root vegetables.
• Garnish with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be sprinkled on top to add a burst of freshness and color.
• Great for kids: These gyros can be a hit with kids. Let them add their favorite toppings for a fun mealtime experience.
• Perfect for special occasions: Whether it’s a picnic, a birthday party, or casual get-together, Instant Pot Chicken Gyros can be a crowd-pleaser.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Chicken Gyros is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how it transforms your dinner routine. You’ll find it quickly becomes a family favorite!

Instant Pot Chicken Gyros

The ultimate comfort food packed in a pita! These Instant Pot Chicken Gyros are bursting with flavor, featuring tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 5 cloves Garlic smashed
• 1 large Yellow Onion diced
• 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth low-sodium
• 18 to 24 ounces Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
• 2 teaspoons Dried Mint
• 1/2 cup Cucumber shredded fine
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt plain
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice
• 2 teaspoons Olive Oil
• 3 teaspoons Dry Dill
• 4 whole-wheat Pitas
• 1/4 cup Cherry Tomatoes cut in half
• 2 tablespoons Red Onion sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup Romaine Lettuce shredded
• 1/4 cup Feta Cheese

Instructions

 

• Place all ingredients into the Instant Pot.
• Place the lid onto the pot, make sure the lid is sealed and the dial is not pointing towards vent.
• Press the 'Poultry' button followed by the 'Adjust' button to light up the high-pressure light.
• Adjust the time using the '+' button to read 25 minutes.
• The Instant Pot will automatically pre-heat (about 15 minutes depending on your Instant Pot) and start the time once ready.
• When the 25 minute cooking time is complete, carefully vent the Instant Pot.
• Caution, the steam is very hot!
• Once all steam is released open the lid and shred the chicken.
• Keep shredded chicken in the pot and stir into the now cooked onions and spices. Keep warm.
• In a small bowl, place the cucumber and sprinkle the salt on top. Set aside for at least 5 minutes.
• Meanwhile, combine remaining ingredients and mix well.
• Once the cucumber has rested, squeeze out any excess liquid and add to the yogurt mixture, mixing well to incorporate the cucumber throughout the yogurt.
• Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken and 1 or 2 tablespoons of the Gyro sauce on top of a pita.
• Top with tomato, red onion, lettuce, and feta.
• Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the shredded chicken for later use; just thaw and reheat.
• Pairing: These gyros pair wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
• Variations: Feel free to explore different toppings to suit your personal taste.
• Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the Instant Pot model, so check your manual for specifics.

Keyword Easy Chicken Gyros, Homemade Gyros, Instant Pot Gyros Recipe, Quick Mediterranean Dinner

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.