Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken wafting through your home, isn’t there? Picture this: tender chicken bathing in a bath of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a medley of colorful veggies. delicious grilled chicken gyros It’s like a Mediterranean vacation on your dinner plate, minus the sunburn and awkward beach selfies. If you close your eyes, you might even hear the gentle waves lapping against a sun-kissed shore. For more inspiration, check out this Keto Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry recipe.

Now, let’s take a little stroll down memory lane. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was for my best friend’s potluck party. As I walked into her house carrying a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken, mouths dropped. crispy air-fried cauliflower wings The vibrant colors and intoxicating aroma had everyone buzzing with excitement. Little did they know, it was as easy to make as my favorite microwave popcorn!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen
  • Packed with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s visually stunning and incredibly satisfying
  • Plus, it allows for plenty of customization based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences!

I made this dish last month for family game night, and everyone kept asking for seconds! refreshing peach basil iced tea.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay moist during cooking; feel free to use breasts if you prefer.
  • Red Bell Peppers: Choose firm peppers for sweetness and vibrant color that pops in the final dish.
  • Yellow Onion: A medium onion adds depth; chop finely to ensure even cooking.
  • Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced cloves bring zesty flavor; don’t skimp on this!
  • Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness are essential; halved for easy eating.
  • Kalamata Olives: Their briny richness adds an authentic Mediterranean flair; pitted is best.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
  • Dried Oregano: This herb is crucial for flavor; substitute with Italian seasoning if needed.
  • Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin oil for drizzling at the end; it’s all about that finish!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces while enjoying a podcast or your favorite playlist.

Layer the Chicken: Place your chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper—this is where flavor begins! For more inspiration, check out this One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles recipe.

Add Veggies & Aromatics: Toss in chopped red bell peppers, onions, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, and dried oregano on top of the chicken. Just look at those colors!

Drizzle Lemon Juice & Olive Oil: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and drizzle olive oil generously. This step ensures each bite bursts with flavor.

Set Your Slow Cooker: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let those flavors mingle beautifully while you go about your day!

Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked through (the chicken should be tender), serve hot with crusty bread or fluffy rice. creamy cheesy turkey rice Don’t forget to drizzle more olive oil right before serving!

This recipe not only brings joy but also invites friends and family to gather around the table with smiles all around!

You Must Know

  • The slow cooker Mediterranean chicken is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
  • The aromatic blend of herbs and spices fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that’ll have everyone wandering in to see what’s cooking
  • Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning the chicken and browning it in the skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This enhances the flavor and locks in moisture, ensuring juicy chicken every time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge. Add olives or feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean kick, making this dish truly yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect slow cooker Mediterranean chicken, consider these helpful insights</strong>: Always sear the chicken first for richer flavors
  • Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a vibrant taste
  • Don’t overload the slow cooker; give ingredients room to cook evenly

Cooking this dish brings back memories of family gatherings when everyone would eagerly wait for dinner time. The aroma wafting through the house always drew compliments and smiles.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but thawing it first ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What sides pair well with Mediterranean chicken?

Serve with couscous or a fresh Greek salad for a delightful meal.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to four days without losing flavor.

Print
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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 37 minute
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Experience the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean with this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a zesty mix of lemon, garlic, and vibrant vegetables create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Effortlessly prepare this meal while your slow cooker works its magic, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas and ensuring a satisfying dining experience for family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 red bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients by washing and chopping the vegetables.
  2. Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Layer chopped red bell peppers, onions, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, and oregano on top of the chicken.
  4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
  6. Serve hot with crusty bread or fluffy rice, drizzling extra olive oil before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. Customize your dish by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping in feta cheese for extra richness.

Tags:

chicken recipe / crockpot cooking / easy dinner / family friendly / healthy meal / lemon garlic / Mediterranean / slow cooker

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