Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful one-pot meal packed with juicy chicken, tomatoes, olives, garlic, lemon, and herbs all slow-cooked to perfection. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is easy, healthy, and ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or effortless entertaining. A vibrant, heart-healthy meal with bold, comforting flavors straight from your slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1½–2 lb lbs chicken thighs or breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth or tomato juice
- Optional Add-ons:
- ½ cup artichoke hearts or bell pepper strips
- 1 tbsp capers
- Crumbled feta cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice onion, mince garlic, and trim chicken as needed.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: Place chicken on the bottom. Add onions, garlic, tomatoes, olives, and dried herbs. Pour in broth and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Finish: Before serving, stir in lemon juice and zest. Top with fresh herbs and optional feta if desired.
- Serve: Pair with couscous, rice, veggies, or use creatively in wraps and salads.
Notes
- Thighs are preferred for tenderness, but breasts work for a leaner version.
- Remove the slow cooker lid for the last 20–30 minutes if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Add chili flakes or harissa for heat, or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.
- Keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge and freezes up to 3 months.
- Use leftovers in pita sandwiches, on flatbreads, or with salad bowls.