If you have been searching for a hearty, flavorful, and utterly comforting dish, let me introduce you to the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe. This dish brings a beautiful combination of tender chicken thighs infused with tangy lemon, garlic, and oregano, elevated by sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. It’s a one-pot wonder that captures the essence of Greek cuisine, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you want to impress with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures every bite is juicy and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that feel like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that work together to create a melody of taste, texture, and color. Each one brings something special to the table—from bright acidity and aromatic herbs to the satisfying saltiness of olives and cheese.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Chosen for tenderness and rich flavor that slow cooking enhances beautifully.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Adds a silky mouthfeel and a classic Mediterranean flavor base.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Infuses the dish with bright acidity, cutting through the richness while amplifying freshness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides pungent depth and a savory punch that marries perfectly with oregano.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds subtle tang and complexity, balancing the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: The hallmark herb of Greek cooking, lending earthy and aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and seasoning throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and subtle spice without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smoky sweetness and gorgeous color.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat and dynamic flavor layering.
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion: Brings sweetness and slight crunch to contrast the tender chicken.
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained): Offers concentrated tomato flavor and chewy texture that add richness.
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives: Known for their briny punch, they deepen the savory character of the dish.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: The final flourish of creamy saltiness that makes every bite celebratory.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds vibrant color and fresh herbaceous notes just before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, paprika, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This blend creates the signature marinade that will seep deep into the chicken, marrying all those wonderful Greek-inspired flavors.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. These thighs will soak up the marinade while cooking slowly, becoming tender and juicy.
Step 3: Pour the Marinade and Add the Vegetables
Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring every piece is nicely coated. Next, scatter the chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and pitted Kalamata olives evenly on top. These ingredients will soften and infuse the dish with bursts of sweet, briny, and aromatic goodness.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Perfectly Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This low-and-slow method is key to breaking down the fibers in the chicken thighs, resulting in tender meat that almost melts in your mouth. The flavors have time to meld into a harmonious Greek feast.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top. The feta adds a creamy, salty finish, while the parsley brings a fresh green pop and a hint of herbiness that brightens each bite.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crumbled feta right before serving gives the dish both visual appeal and that burst of fresh and tangy flavor that completes the flavor profile perfectly. You could also add a few lemon wedges on the side for guests who want an extra citrus kick.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the rich sauce. Think fluffy rice, light couscous, or warm pita bread. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside a crisp Greek salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to bring balance and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, use leftovers to make wraps or grain bowls by layering with fresh veggies, tzatziki sauce, and maybe some hummus. It’s a fantastic way to transform this slow-cooked goodness into different meals without losing any of its character.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for an even tastier second meal. When storing, keep the chicken and garnishes separate if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled chicken and all ingredients to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results. The slow cooker flavors hold up wonderfully after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating can help loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist. Avoid overcooking to preserve tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that thighs stay juicier and more tender during slow cooking. Breasts may dry out slightly if cooked too long, so monitor timing closely.
Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?
Using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes adds richness and flavor, but if you only have dry sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water first. The oil-packed kind contributes a wonderful depth to the dish.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! The recipe suggests crushed red pepper flakes as an optional ingredient. Feel free to increase the amount or add other spices like cayenne if you love heat in your meals.
What sides go best with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe?
Traditional Greek sides like rice pilaf, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a bright Greek salad work perfectly. Warm pita bread or even mashed potatoes are tasty options that complement the flavors nicely.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers will stay good for up to 4 days. Beyond that, freezing is recommended to maintain freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I sincerely hope you give this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe a try because it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a comforting hug and a little getaway to the Mediterranean in every bite. It’s straightforward to prepare yet impressively delicious, making it perfect anytime you want something warm, wholesome, and packed with flavor. Once you taste it, I have a feeling it will become one of your go-to slow cooker favorites. Enjoy every savory moment!
Print
Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and tender Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, slow cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and red onions. Topped with feta cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a perfect Mediterranean-inspired main course that’s simple to prepare and versatile for meals.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Add-ins and Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, until well combined for a balanced and flavorful marinade.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout the dish.
- Add Marinade and Toppings: Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. Top with chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives to infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should become tender and easily shredded when done.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh and tangy finish. Serve alongside rice, couscous, or pita bread to complete the meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted, but chicken thighs provide a more flavorful and tender result when slow cooked.
- Leftovers make excellent wraps, sandwiches, or can be served over grain bowls for delicious next-day meals.
