If you have been searching for a delightful dinner that feels both fresh and comforting, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is going to become your absolute go-to. The marriage of tangy lemon, fragrant herbs, and briny Kalamata olives perfectly complements tender chicken breasts simmered to juicy perfection. It’s an effortless recipe that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors right into your kitchen, making every bite a celebration of sunshine and warmth. Whether you want an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress friends with minimal fuss, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing distinct layers of flavor, color, and texture to the dish. From the rich olive oil that adds silkiness to the bright lemon juice that wakes up your palate, every component works in harmony to create the classic Greek taste you’ll fall in love with.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the herbs and spices together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that balances the savory elements.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a deep, aromatic background note that’s iconic in Greek cooking.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Offers that classic earthy herb flavor essential to Greek dishes.
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle, savory herbal layer that rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicate and bold flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses extra savory depth.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved: Introduces a briny, fruity contrast that’s signature to Greek cuisine.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Provides sweetness and chewy texture to brighten the dish.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy, salty richness that’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor to complete the plate.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Marinade
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisking these together creates the vibrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with those unmistakable Greek flavors. This simple mixture is where the magic begins, so be sure to get everything well incorporated.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the slow cooker base. Pour the well-mixed olive oil and herb marinade directly over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets coated in the flavorful liquid. This step ensures that the chicken will stay moist and imbued with aromatic herbs throughout the cooking process.
Step 3: Add the Broth, Olives, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, add the chicken broth to keep the dish juicy and tender during its slow cook. Then scatter in the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, which will slowly cook down to a luscious, tangy, and slightly sweet layer of flavor that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Let Everything Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low and slow method works wonders here, rendering the chicken incredibly tender and flavor-packed, while giving the olives and tomatoes ample time to meld into the sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Feta and Fresh Parsley
When the chicken has reached that perfect tenderness, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. The feta adds a creamy, salty contrast that melts just slightly with the residual heat. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of herbal freshness and a lovely pop of color, making the dish as beautiful as it tastes.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley garnish is not just for looks; it offers a crisp contrast to the rich flavors and creamy feta. For added flair, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or some fresh lemon wedges on the side elevates the dish and ties everything together with an extra zesty lift.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a more traditional Mediterranean touch, serve it alongside warm pita bread and a crisp Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, arrange the chicken over a bed of couscous or quinoa and spoon the olive and tomato sauce generously over the top. You can also stuff the chicken breasts before cooking with spinach or artichoke hearts to create an exciting twist while keeping the essence of the original recipe intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to store the chicken and sauce together to preserve the moist texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to plan ahead. Place cooled chicken portions along with some of the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage. Be careful not to overheat so the chicken remains tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add extra richness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the thighs are fully cooked and tender. The slow cooker is very forgiving and perfect for thighs as well.
Is it necessary to use dried herbs, or can I use fresh?
You can substitute fresh herbs, but keep in mind that fresh oregano and thyme are more potent. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to dried to achieve similar flavor intensity.
Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature. Simmer gently on the stove for about an hour or bake in a covered dish at 300°F (150°C) until the chicken is tender. However, the slow cooker makes it so easy and hands-off!
What can I do if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
If Kalamata olives aren’t available, you can substitute with other briny olives like Gaeta or black olives. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still add a lovely salty contrast to the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful choice for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is truly a gem that blends ease, flavor, and wholesome ingredients into one unforgettable meal. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something nourishing and impressive with almost no effort. I highly recommend giving it a try and discovering how these simple ingredients come together to create magic in your slow cooker. Your taste buds will thank you, and you may find this becoming a permanent favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and tender dish featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked with a tangy olive oil and lemon marinade, infused with garlic, oregano, thyme, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and topped with feta cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for an effortless Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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 olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Arrange chicken in slow cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker in a single layer, then pour the prepared olive oil and lemon marinade evenly over the chicken.
- Add broth and vegetables: Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, then add the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes around the chicken to infuse additional flavor during cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Finish and garnish: Once cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken breasts, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot for a delicious Greek-inspired meal.
Notes
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and lemon mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on the saltiness of the feta and olives.
