If you’re searching for a truly vibrant, flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself, look no further than Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken. This dish brings together tender chicken thighs, briny kalamata olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all simmered slowly to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is colorful. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat, whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken so magical is its harmony of simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one adds something special, from bold flavors to bursts of color, ensuring every bite is a mini Mediterranean getaway.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs stay juicy and tender after hours of slow cooking, making them perfect for this dish.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved: These olives bring a tangy, briny punch that balances the rich chicken and sweet vegetables.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced: Sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy, sweet-tart depth and beautiful color.
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced: The onion melts into the sauce, adding subtle sweetness and body.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: For a pop of color and gentle sweetness that brightens up the whole dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the chicken and vegetables with irresistible Mediterranean fragrance.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice: This forms the base of the sauce, keeping everything moist and adding a fresh, tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano brings that classic herbal note essential to Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a gentle smokiness that makes the other flavors pop.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season to your preferences, but don’t be shy—these ingredients love a little salt.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Either option keeps everything moist and flavorful—wine adds a touch of elegance!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Drizzled over the top to lock in moisture and richness as it cooks.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): A final sprinkle of freshness and color before serving.
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving): Adds a creamy, salty finish you’ll love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Step 1: Layer the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken thighs right at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures they’ll soak up all the delicious juices as they cook. Next, scatter the kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced red onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. Every layer brings more color, flavor, and excitement to the pot!
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Pour the can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!) and your chicken broth or dry white wine over the top. These liquids will mingle with the veggies and chicken, creating a luscious sauce that tastes like you fussed for hours—when really, the slow cooker is doing all the work for you.
Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. These herbs and spices are what transform your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken from simple to spectacular. Finish with a generous drizzle of olive oil to keep everything extra succulent.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pop the lid on and set your slow cooker to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is so tender it practically falls apart at the touch of a fork. The kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly as everything melds together.
Step 5: Shred and Stir
Before serving, gently shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together so those beautiful Mediterranean flavors are mixed throughout. This step ensures every bite is packed with juicy chicken, veggies, and that irresistible sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Spoon the Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken onto plates or into bowls, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese if you’re using it. The finishing touches take this dish from homey to restaurant-worthy in seconds.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Garnishes
Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of grassy freshness that brightens the whole dish. A handful of crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy, tangy edge that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce and tender chicken.
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a star on its own, but it’s even better with a supporting cast. Serve it over fluffy couscous, steamed rice, or scoop it up with warm, soft pita bread. For a true Mediterranean feast, add a crisp Greek salad on the side for crunch and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, try tucking the saucy chicken and veggies into toasted pita pockets for a hand-held meal. You can also spoon the mixture onto a bed of baby spinach or arugula for a warm salad, or even serve it family-style in a big, colorful platter for everyone to dig in together. It’s versatile enough to fit any mood or occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken keeps beautifully. Just let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it’s even tastier the next day!
Freezing
This recipe is a meal-prepper’s dream. Freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready for a Mediterranean escape, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. It also reheats well in the microwave for a speedy lunch or dinner.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option, but keep in mind they may turn out slightly less juicy than thighs. Just be careful not to overcook, and shred them gently at the end.
How spicy is Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken?
This dish is mild and family-friendly as written, but you can turn up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of hot paprika if you like things spicier.
What if I don’t have kalamata olives?
No worries! You can substitute with green olives or even omit them if you’re not a fan. The dish will still be delicious and packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Can I make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble all the ingredients in your slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the slow cooker and start cooking. Dinner will be ready when you are!
Is it gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free sides if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, and with Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken, you get a meal that feels special with almost no effort. If you love big flavors and easy dinners, give this recipe a try—you just might find it becomes your new weeknight favorite!
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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a flavorful, easy-to-make main course featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy days, it combines vibrant Mediterranean ingredients into a comforting dish, ideal served with couscous, rice, or pita bread.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
- Add the flavorful ingredients: Top the chicken with kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced red bell pepper, and minced garlic.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth or dry white wine over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Add the olive oil to the slow cooker to help blend flavors and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Slow cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred and combine: Before serving, gently shred the chicken inside the slow cooker using two forks and stir everything together to evenly distribute flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and optional crumbled feta cheese over the chicken for a fresh, tangy finish. Serve warm with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread.
Notes
- Serve this Mediterranean chicken with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.
- You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, but breasts may be slightly drier after slow cooking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad to complement the Mediterranean flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
