loaf pan chicken gyros recipe

The Best loaf pan chicken gyros recipe

I’ve been making loaf pan chicken gyros for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends. The dish originated in Greece, where it’s known as ‘gyro’ or ‘yiro’, and is typically made with thinly sliced meat cooked on a vertical spit.

However, my version uses a loaf pan to cook the chicken, making it easier to manage and more accessible for home cooks. The result is a juicy, flavorful, and incredibly tender chicken that’s perfect for wrapping in pita bread or serving on its own.

My kids love helping me assemble the gyros with their favorite toppings, and it’s a great way to get them involved in meal planning and prep work. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it at a family dinner, pack it in lunches, or even take it to a potluck or picnic.

I’ve also found that the loaf pan method makes it easier to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and juicy interior that you get from traditional gyros. Plus, using boneless chicken breasts makes the dish healthier than many other fast food options.

Overall, I’m so glad I stumbled upon this recipe – it’s become a staple in our household and I know you’ll love it too!

Loaf Pan Chicken Gyros

4.9 from 568 votes

A delicious and easy-to-make chicken gyros recipe cooked in a loaf pan. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp oregano
1/2 cup olive oil

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber grated
1 clove garlic minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill chopped

For Serving

4 pita breads
1 tomato sliced
1 red onion sliced
1 head lettuce shredded

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2Place chicken breasts in loaf pan.
3In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano and olive oil.
4Pour mixture over chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5Bake for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
6Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce.
8Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water.
9Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill in a bowl until well combined.
10To serve, warm pita breads in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly toasted.
11Slice chicken into thin strips and place on pita bread.
12Top with tzatziki sauce, sliced tomato, sliced red onion, and shredded lettuce.

🔧Equipment

Loaf pan
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or feta cheese to the gyros for added flavor.

One of the best things about this loaf pan chicken gyros recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat. Simply let the cooked gyros cool completely before refrigerating them for up to 3 days or freezing for up to 2 months.

When reheating, I recommend warming them up in a low oven (around 250°F) until they’re hot throughout. For serving ideas, try wrapping them in warm pita bread with your favorite toppings – like hummus, tabbouleh, or feta cheese – for an easy and delicious meal.

Alternatively, serve them on their own as a protein-packed snack or side dish.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Loaf Pan Chicken Gyros

What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can either pound them thin or cut them into strips to help them cook evenly.

Can I use different seasonings or spices?

Yes! While the original recipe calls for salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to give the dish your own unique flavor.

How do I keep the chicken moist while it cooks?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to keep the loaf pan covered with foil during cooking. You can also brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter halfway through cooking to help keep it moist.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling and cooking the gyros.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can use a large baking dish or even a cast-iron skillet to cook the chicken.

Similar Posts