Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy and satisfying. With tender chicken paired with roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and tangy feta, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite.

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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 Wraps
• With Pasta
• 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 Cooker Greek Chicken?
• What can I serve with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• How do I customize my Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• Is Slow Cooker Greek Chicken healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy a medley of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you to sunny shores.
• Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Great on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or salad for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prep; leftovers are just as delicious!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, ensure you have the right tools on hand for an effortless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe; it cooks the chicken slowly, making it tender and flavorful.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken to lock in juices before slow cooking.
• Cutting board & knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

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, for serving)
• 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 the chicken for 1-2 minutes until golden. Flip and brown the other side for an additional minute.
4. If your skillet isn’t large enough, work in batches to avoid overlapping chicken pieces.
5. Transfer the 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. Avoid placing vegetables on top of the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl or measuring cup:

1. Whisk together the red wine vinegar,
2. Minced garlic,
3. Honey,
4. Oregano,
5. Thyme.

Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in your slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover your slow cooker:

• Cook on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until cooked through.
• Ensure that internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm:

• Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or salad if desired!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This dish can be paired with various sides and garnishes for a complete meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a filling base that soaks up the juices.
• Nutty Quinoa: Pair with cooked quinoa for a healthy grain alternative.

In a Salad

• Fresh Green Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with pieces of chicken, olives, and feta for a refreshing option.
• Greek Salad: Combine with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, drizzling with olive oil and lemon juice.

As Wraps

• Pita Wraps: Use warm pita bread to wrap the chicken and veggies for a handheld meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps filled with chicken and toppings.

With Pasta

• Mediterranean Pasta: Toss pasta with the cooked chicken, adding olives and feta for extra flavor.
• Orzo Salad: Mix orzo pasta with the chicken and fresh herbs for a hearty side.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Always season your chicken well before cooking to enhance flavor.
• Layering Matters: Place vegetables around the chicken instead of on top to ensure even cooking.
• Check Early: Monitor cooking times closely as slow cooker models vary; check for doneness before the recommended time.
• Moisture Control: To retain moisture, avoid removing the lid during cooking unless necessary.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs at serving enhances flavor and freshness in your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Pair your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken with these delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce made with cucumber and garlic; perfect for dipping or drizzling.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Try a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender for added nutrition.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes and parsley adds freshness to your plate.
4. Hummus Platter: Serve alongside hummus with pita chips or veggie sticks for an appetizer-style side.
5. Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle extra crumbled feta on top as a tasty garnish that enhances every bite.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a lovely crunch and complements the softness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker can lead to less flavor. Take a few minutes to sear the chicken on both sides for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Placing too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation and layer ingredients properly.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Different slow cookers have varying heat levels. Always check your chicken’s internal temperature early to avoid overcooking.
• Not Using Fresh Herbs: Relying solely on dried herbs can make your dish taste flat. Fresh herbs enhance flavor; try adding them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Serving Without Garnish: Serving your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken plain misses an opportunity for visual appeal and added flavor. Always sprinkle with feta and fresh herbs before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow Cooker Greek Chicken that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

You can pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Is Slow Cooker Greek Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with lean protein from chicken and loaded with nutritious vegetables, making it a healthy choice.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences by adjusting the vegetables or spices used. With its bright Mediterranean flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the ease of cooking with your slow cooker!