Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. With its tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and tangy feta, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, it’s healthy and easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Vegetables
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker and Brown the Chicken
• Step 2: Add Vegetables
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• With Rice or Quinoa
• In a Salad
• As a Standalone Dish
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• Reheating Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does Slow Cooker Greek Chicken take to cook?
• Can I customize my Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?
• What should I serve with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• Is this recipe healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply brown the chicken, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and herbs create a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious choice for dinner.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken even easier. Gather your kitchen essentials to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (5-quart or larger)
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning chicken before slow cooking to enhance flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for perfect results.

Ingredients

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is moist, juicy, and packed with bright Mediterranean flavors. Featuring roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, red onion, and tangy feta, this dish is easy to prepare, healthy, and absolutely delicious.

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• 1 cup kalamata olives, drained
• 1 medium red onion, cut into ½-inch chunks

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (from about 3 large cloves)
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

For Garnish

• ½ cup feta cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh herbs (any mix of fresh basil, parsley, or thyme)

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How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker and Brown the Chicken

Lightly coat a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker with nonstick spray. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
2. Place it in the hot skillet, seasoned side down.
3. Brown for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for 1 additional minute.
5. If needed, work in batches to prevent overlapping.
6. Transfer browned chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Arrange the roasted red peppers, olives, and red onion around the chicken in the slow cooker. Do not place vegetables on top of the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl or measuring cup:

1. Whisk together red wine vinegar, minced garlic, honey, oregano, and thyme.
2. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker:

• Cook on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm:

• Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top along with chopped fresh herbs.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or salad if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Greek Chicken can elevate your meal and impress your guests. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it suitable for any occasion.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices.
• Quinoa Bowl: Pair with quinoa for a nutty flavor and added protein.

In a Salad

• Greek Salad: Mix the chicken with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a refreshing dish.
• Wrap It Up: Use pita bread to wrap the chicken along with lettuce and tzatziki sauce for a tasty handheld meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Garnished Plate: Enjoy the chicken on its own, topped with crumbled feta and fresh herbs for a simple yet flavorful experience.
• Family Style: Serve in the slow cooker on the table for a communal dining experience.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken involves some simple techniques. By following these tips, you can ensure a flavorful and juicy dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your meal.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check early to avoid overcooking; timing can vary based on your slow cooker model.
• Add Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors significantly.
• Consider Marinating: For an extra punch, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs overnight before cooking.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious main course.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce that adds creaminess and freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide great texture and flavor.
3. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up chicken and sauce.
4. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with vegetables makes for an easy side dish packed with flavor.
5. Greek Orzo Salad: Orzo pasta tossed with olives, feta, and herbs brings Mediterranean flair to your table.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and outcome of your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken before slow cooking can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always sear the chicken for a couple of minutes on each side to lock in moisture and enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Placing too many ingredients in the slow cooker can prevent even cooking. Make sure there is enough space for heat to circulate by not overpacking it.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different slow cookers have varying temperatures. Always check your chicken’s temperature early to avoid overcooking.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Remember to season generously, especially when using fresh ingredients like chicken.
• Forgetting to Add Liquid: Skipping the sauce or broth can result in dry chicken. Ensure you add enough liquid to keep the dish moist and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with a date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth and cover with foil. Bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Cut chicken into smaller pieces, place in a microwave-safe dish, and cover. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a bit of broth, and gently reheat the chicken while stirring until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Slow Cooker Greek Chicken take to cook?

The cooking time depends on your slow cooker settings; typically, it takes about 1 ½ to 2 hours on high or 3 to 4 hours on low.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?

Yes! You can add more vegetables or different herbs according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with spices as well.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough for any side dish you enjoy!

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! The Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is packed with lean protein and healthy fats from olives and olive oil, making it nutritious and filling.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its bright Mediterranean flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or sides!

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