Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, offering a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With juicy chicken, roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and tangy feta, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also provides a satisfying meal for everyone.

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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 Serving (Optional)
• 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
• In Pitas
• Over Salad
• With Quinoa
• 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
• Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooking?
• What sides go well with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• How do I customize this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of olives, feta, and herbs creates a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or salad for a complete meal that suits various preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for convenient leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken infused with flavors.
• Large skillet: Browning the chicken in a skillet enhances its flavor before slow cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors in your dish.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing sauces thoroughly to create a cohesive taste.

Ingredients

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 Serving (Optional)

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

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. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Place it in the hot skillet, seasoned side down. Brown the chicken for 1-2 minutes until golden. Flip it over and brown the other side for 1 additional minute. If your skillet isn’t large enough, work in batches to prevent overlap. Transfer the 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; this helps them cook evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together red wine vinegar, minced garlic, honey, oregano, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until cooked through. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs. Pair with rice, quinoa, or a refreshing salad if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with this delicious Slow Cooker Greek Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Greek Chicken can be a delightful experience. Its vibrant flavors and textures pair well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired dish.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is an excellent base to soak up the flavorful juices of the chicken.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

In Pitas

• Pita Bread: Fill warm pita pockets with shredded Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, adding fresh veggies and tzatziki for a delicious wrap.
• Whole Wheat Pitas: Opt for whole wheat pitas for added nutrients and a heartier texture.

Over Salad

• Greek Salad: Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a refreshing meal.
• Spinach Salad: Pair with spinach, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a nutrient-packed option.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa Bowl: Top cooked quinoa with the Greek chicken, adding chopped herbs and lemon juice for brightness.
• Herbed Quinoa: Mix in fresh herbs to your quinoa before serving for an aromatic twist.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor that makes a difference.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Each slow cooker varies; check the chicken’s temperature early to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices like paprika or lemon zest for more complexity in flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Pairing your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender enhances the Mediterranean theme.
2. Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous makes an easy side that absorbs all those delicious flavors.
3. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce provides a cool contrast to the warm chicken and is perfect as a dip or dressing.
4. Feta Cheese Crumbles: Adding crumbled feta on top brings saltiness and creaminess that pairs well with the chicken.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of the dish.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for scooping up extra sauce from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your culinary experience and ensure delicious results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Slow cookers vary in temperature, and cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Always check the internal temperature early.
• Skipping Browning: Not browning the chicken first can lead to less flavor. Take the time to sear it in a skillet for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make the dish bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs for more vibrant flavors.
• Layering Vegetables Incorrectly: Placing vegetables on top of the chicken may lead to uneven cooking. Arrange them around the chicken instead.
• Not Using Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate this dish significantly. Don’t skip them; they add brightness and depth to your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of chicken stock. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Add chicken to a skillet over low heat with a little broth. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooking?

You should thaw the chicken before cooking. Frozen chicken may not cook evenly and could pose food safety concerns.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements its Mediterranean flavor.

How do I customize this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also adjust herbs based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything except cooking and store it in the fridge overnight. Simply set it in the slow cooker when you’re ready.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and tastes great reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices to make it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal any day of the week!