If you’re on the hunt for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both effortless and bursting with flavor, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Tender chicken thighs soak up tangy lemon, briny olives, aromatic herbs, and plenty of garlic while they simmer to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Each bite delivers the essence of the Greek Isles right to your table—all with almost zero hands-on time! Gather a few staple ingredients and let your slow cooker do the magic for a dish that feels like a little vacation in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe keeps things simple, relying on a handful of Mediterranean pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create incredible depth of flavor. Each component brings something special to the party, whether it’s aroma, tang, richness, or a splash of color.
- Chicken thighs: Super juicy and full of flavor, chicken thighs stay tender and moist through slow cooking.
- Chicken broth: Forms the base of the cooking liquid, gently infusing the chicken with savory notes.
- Olive oil: Adds healthy richness and helps the flavors mingle and coat every morsel.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed brightness pumps up the Mediterranean tang and keeps the dish lively.
- Garlic: Four cloves deliver deep, aromatic warmth that no Greek dish should be without.
- Red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the chicken and olive oil.
- Dried oregano: The signature Greek herb, lending classic herbal, earthy depth.
- Dried thyme: A little goes a long way to round things out with woodsy, savory notes.
- Salt: Draws out all the best flavors and ensures every bite is delicious.
- Black pepper: Delivers just a hint of heat and earthiness.
- Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and appealing color to the finished dish.
- Red onion: Sliced onion melts into the mix and brings sweetness as it cooks.
- Kalamata olives: These Greek olives provide pops of salty, briny richness in every bite.
- Cherry tomatoes: Added at the end for bursts of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled on top, it gives a tangy, creamy finish that’s irresistible.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and scattered for a fresh, green lift that brightens every serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
Start by grabbing a small bowl and whisking together the chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This magical marinade is not just flavor-packed but also super easy to assemble. Take a second to inhale—this combo already smells incredible!
Step 2: Arrange Chicken and Veggies in the Slow Cooker
Lay your chicken thighs into the slow cooker in an even layer. Pour that marinade right over the top, making sure everything is coated. Scatter the sliced red onion and Kalamata olives evenly over the chicken. Don’t worry if it looks a little crowded—the slow cooker will soften everything into a beautiful medley.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Pop on the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will turn meltingly tender, absorbing all those zesty, herby flavors. No need to peek or stir during this time—just let the slow cooker do its thing while you go about your day.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes Near the End
Roughly 30 minutes before serving, scatter your halved cherry tomatoes into the slow cooker and gently stir. This timing helps them keep their texture and brighten up the final dish with sweet, juicy bursts of flavor.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving platter, then spoon all the gorgeous pan juices and veggies over the top. Finish by sprinkling with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. Now you’re ready to serve your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe with pride!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
I love to finish this dish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and a shower of fresh parsley. The feta melts ever so slightly over the warm chicken, adding a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly balances the herbs and lemon. For extra color, add an extra pinch of paprika or a few extra cherry tomatoes right before serving.
Side Dishes
The Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of fluffy basmati rice, tender couscous, or classic warm pita bread to soak up all the delicious juices. For an even more satisfying spread, serve alongside a crisp Greek salad, lemon-roasted potatoes, or some grilled vegetables for a true feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn leftovers into pita wraps or grain bowls! Shred the chicken and nestle it into pita pockets with lettuce and slices of cucumber, or lay it over a bed of arugula and quinoa for a light, refreshing lunch. For a party, serve the chicken sliced on a platter with toothpicks and lots of lemon wedges for a robust appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply let the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe cool, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. As the flavors mingle overnight, the chicken gets even more delicious!
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags for up to three months. Leave out the feta and parsley until just before serving for best texture, and let the chicken thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding an extra splash of broth if needed to keep things juicy. Alternatively, microwave individual portions with a loose cover, stirring halfway through to ensure even reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option and work well in this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe—just reduce the cooking time by an hour or so to avoid drying them out. Check for doneness early for the juiciest results.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
For a rich, creamy finish, stir in about 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt just before serving. This adds a luxurious tang and silkiness that takes the dish to another level.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, this recipe is super flexible! Dice up zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach and layer them in with the chicken for more veggie goodness and extra color in every bite.
What’s the best way to meal prep this recipe?
You can combine all the marinade ingredients and prep the chicken a day ahead, storing everything (except tomatoes and garnishes) in the fridge. In the morning, just dump everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Is this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any sides (like pita or couscous) you serve alongside are certified gluten-free if needed.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to taste how easy and satisfying this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is. Let it transport you to sunny Greece, with vibrant flavors and hearty comfort in every bite. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll quickly become one of your family’s favorites!
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Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for a busy day. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and Mediterranean spices, then slow-cooked with onions, olives, and tomatoes. Garnished with feta cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is a delicious taste of Greece.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over the top. Add sliced onion and olives, spreading them evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Add Tomatoes: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cherry tomatoes.
- Serve: Transfer chicken to a serving platter, spoon juices and vegetables over the top, and sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs but reduce cook time slightly to avoid dryness.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup Greek yogurt just before serving.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
