Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Simply throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you! The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the blend of Mediterranean ingredients creates a rich, savory sauce. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress guests, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved

• 1/2 cup green olives, halved (optional)

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, if you like more sauce)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Kalamata olives, green olives (if using), sliced onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil.

3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the oregano, basil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

4. Add Optional Ingredients: If you prefer a saucier dish, add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. For extra tang, squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon.

5. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

6. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 3-7 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the slow cooker for some heat.

• Serve with Different Sides: This Mediterranean chicken pairs well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or even a fresh green salad. It’s also great wrapped in pita or served with warm flatbread.

• Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. They’ll stay juicy and tender as they cook.

• Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option that still packs the Mediterranean flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Mediterranean chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a little bit of broth or water to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in pieces will take longer to cook, typically 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can make it the day before, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, especially if you have ripe, in-season tomatoes. Use about 4-5 medium tomatoes, chopped, and add a bit of extra broth to ensure the dish stays moist.

What can I serve this with?

This Mediterranean chicken is delicious with rice, couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with pita bread or use it as a filling for wraps.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Mediterranean chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the slow cooker or on the stove.

How can I make this dish more tangy?

Add extra lemon juice or a tablespoon of red wine vinegar for an added tang. You can also mix in some capers for extra acidity and flavor.

Can I use other types of olives?

Yes, you can use any type of olives you prefer. Green olives, black olives, or even a mix of all three work wonderfully in this dish.

Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Simply cook the chicken in a large skillet with the tomatoes, olives, and spices on medium heat for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it is tender and easily shredded with a fork. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and effortless dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, savory olives, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, this dish captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners. Whether you serve it with rice, couscous, or in pita wraps, this Mediterranean-inspired meal will be a hit with everyone who tries it!

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

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• Author: Alice
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Slow Cooker
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a delicious, effortless dish filled with tender chicken, olives, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is a flavorful, customizable dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Serve it with rice, couscous, or warm flatbread for a satisfying meal!

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved

• 1/2 cup green olives, halved (optional)

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for more sauce)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Add the Vegetables and Olives: Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), Kalamata olives, green olives (if using), sliced onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil.

• Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the oregano, basil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

• Optional Ingredients: Add chicken broth if you like a saucier dish. Squeeze in lemon juice for extra tang.

• Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

• Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the sauce. Stir to combine. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

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Notes

Variations:Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.Different Protein: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option or try chickpeas or tofu for a vegan version.Serve with Different Sides: This Mediterranean chicken pairs well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or fresh salad. It’s also great in pita or flatbread wraps.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.