Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a must-try for anyone looking for a dish that combines ease and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, it brings together tender chicken with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean. With roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and tangy feta, this recipe is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying.

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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
• In a Wrap
• In Salads
• As a Topping
• 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 side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• How do I customize Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?
• Can I make this recipe low-carb?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work is needed, making this dish perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of olives, roasted peppers, and herbs creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is a nutritious option for families.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This allows you to cook your chicken low and slow, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing its flavor.
• Whisk: An essential tool for mixing the sauce ingredients quickly and thoroughly.

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 Garnish

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

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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.
4. Flip and brown the other side for an additional minute.
5. 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. Ensure that you do not place vegetables on top of the chicken to allow even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl or measuring cup:

1. Whisk together the red wine vinegar, minced garlic, honey, oregano, and thyme.
2. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the 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.
• Ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked:

• Serve warm topped with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or salad if desired.

By following these steps closely, you’ll create a delightful Slow Cooker Greek Chicken that tantalizes your taste buds!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful experience, as this dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it.

With Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, pair it with brown rice, adding a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

In a Wrap

• Pita Bread Wraps: Stuff warm pita bread with the chicken, roasted peppers, and olives for a portable meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and toppings.

In Salads

• Greek Salad: Toss the chicken with fresh greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for a refreshing salad.
• Quinoa Salad: Mix the chicken into quinoa with cherry tomatoes and parsley for added protein and nutrients.

As a Topping

• Pizza Topping: Use the chicken as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza for an Italian twist.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with the chicken mixture and bake until tender for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Browning Technique: Browning the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor by creating a rich crust.
• Bold Season Generously: Don’t hold back on seasoning. The salt and pepper will make your dish more vibrant.
• Bold Veggie Placement: Place veggies around the chicken rather than on top to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Bold Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
• Bold Rest Period: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This helps retain its juiciness before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Complement your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken with these tasty side dishes that enhance its Mediterranean flair.

1. Garlic Bread: A perfect pairing that adds crunch and flavor; simply toast slices brushed with garlic butter.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition; roast until tender.
3. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest brings brightness; serve chilled or warm.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: This cooling yogurt sauce pairs wonderfully; serve on the side or drizzled over the chicken.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Infused with olives, tomatoes, and feta; this dish echoes Greek flavors beautifully.
6. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, and mint; it balances rich flavors nicely.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky taste; season simply with olive oil and lemon juice.
8. Fried Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with oregano complement the dish well; fry or roast until golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a delightful meal, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to less flavor. Take a few minutes to brown the chicken in a skillet for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Placing too much chicken or vegetables can cause uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation by following recipe guidelines.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Cooking time varies by slow cooker model. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland chicken. Use kosher salt and pepper generously, and consider adding herbs or spices based on your preference.
• Leaving Out Optional Ingredients: Ingredients like feta cheese add flavor and richness. Don’t skip them unless you have dietary restrictions; they enhance the dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth over medium heat until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time. Make sure it’s fully cooked before serving.

What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I customize Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or switch up the olives and feta based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes! Serve it without rice or quinoa, and add more non-starchy vegetables for a delicious low-carb option.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is not only moist and juicy but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you want it as part of a hearty meal or as leftovers for lunch, this dish offers something special every time. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own!