If you’ve been searching for a recipe that feels like a warm Mediterranean hug on a plate, look no further than this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe. It combines tender chicken breasts with the vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, oregano, and olives, all slow-cooked to juicy perfection. Every bite bursts with sunshine and savory goodness, making this dish an absolute favorite for easy weeknight dinners or leisurely weekend meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the Mediterranean ingredients that marry perfectly to create an unforgettable dish. Each component contributes a unique touch, whether it’s the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice or the salty depth of Kalamata olives.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that absorbs all the delightful flavors during slow cooking.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the herbs and spices with the chicken.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty punch that livens up the entire dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with that unmistakable, savory garlic aroma.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that adds a fragrant, earthy note.
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme: Complements oregano with a subtle, slightly minty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a flavorful base for the juices.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved: These briny gems introduce authentic Greek flavor and a pleasant bite.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Provide sweetness and a rich, chewy texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Final touch that adds creamy saltiness to the dish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A pop of vibrant green and fresh, herbal brightness to finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
Start by combining the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This Mediterranean blend is the backbone of the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe, offering a perfect balance of tangy, herbal, and savory flavors that will permeate every bite of chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place your four boneless, skinless chicken breasts inside the slow cooker basin. Pour the marinade mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. This step ensures that the chicken soaks up all the lovely aromas and tastes from the herbs and lemon.
Step 3: Add Broth, Olives, and Tomatoes
Pour in half a cup of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist during cooking. Then scatter the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the top. These ingredients introduce layers of briny and sweet nuances that bring this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe to life.
Step 4: Set and Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the chicken to become unbelievably tender and juicy, soaking in all the Mediterranean goodness without drying out.
Step 5: Add Feta and Fresh Parsley
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over each piece. Add fresh parsley as garnish for a burst of freshness and color. The salty creaminess of the feta perfectly complements the olives and sun-dried tomatoes, providing a classic Greek finish to your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a lively green contrast that brightens the plate visually and flavor-wise. A final drizzle of extra lemon juice or a few more Kalamata olives on top can amplify the zesty and salty notes if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple side options like fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad. Roasted vegetables or quinoa also complement the flavors perfectly, rounding out a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken on a platter lined with lemon slices and scatter olives and parsley around. Alternatively, build a bowl with a base of couscous or orzo and lay the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe over it, garnished with feta crumbles and sun-dried tomatoes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen as the chicken soaks up the marinade overnight, making for even tastier next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Slow Cooker Greek Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Separate portions before freezing for easy thawing and avoid freezing the feta cheese, as it can alter texture when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through and tender.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives if I don’t have any?
Green olives or black olives can work as substitutes, though the flavor profile will change slightly. If you prefer milder flavors, pitted olives are a good option.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply simmer the chicken and marinade mixture gently on low heat in a covered pan for about 30-40 minutes until cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, just skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free substitute. The other ingredients still deliver plenty of flavor, so this recipe remains delicious without dairy.
What wine pairs well with the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the lemony, herbal notes in this dish without overwhelming its delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute go-tos for a fuss-free, flavorful meal that feels like a little escape to the Mediterranean. It’s comforting, fresh, and effortlessly impressive whether you’re feeding family or friends. Give it a try and savor every tender, lemon-kissed bite!
Print
Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken breasts cooked to perfection with a Mediterranean-inspired blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, and Kalamata olives. Enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, this effortless dish is ideal for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Arrange Chicken in Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
- Add Marinade and Additional Ingredients: Pour the prepared olive oil and lemon mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Then, add the chicken broth, halved Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish with Feta and Parsley: Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, herbal flavor.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil mixture for 30 minutes before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and reduce the sauce on the stovetop before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
