Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a savory mix of tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked couscous or quinoa, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Step 2: Add diced tomatoes with their juice, Kalamata olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes over the chicken.
3. Step 3: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Step 5: Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and serve over cooked couscous or quinoa.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh taste.
• For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Include chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added vegetables and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Yes, you can use about 1 1/2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes, but they may release more liquid, which could slightly affect the cooking time and sauce consistency.

Is it necessary to pit the Kalamata olives?

Yes, pitting the olives before adding them makes the dish easier to eat and improves the overall texture.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 67 reviews

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with tangy diced tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, fragrant herbs, and garlic. Perfect for a hands-off dinner, it pairs wonderfully with couscous or quinoa for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal.

• Author: Matteo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 40 minutes (high)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Vegetables

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish and Serving

• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked couscous or quinoa, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker. Lightly grease the slow cooker insert or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer Ingredients. Place the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the chicken, then add the sliced red onions, minced garlic, and Kalamata olives on top.
3. Add Seasonings. Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker for even flavor distribution.
4. Cook the Chicken. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Check and Garnish. Before serving, check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add freshness and color.
6. Serve. Spoon the chicken mixture over cooked couscous or quinoa for a complete Mediterranean meal. Enjoy hot.

Notes

• For best results, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts for more tender and juicy meat.
• Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to bulk up the recipe.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste great when reheated.

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, Mediterranean chicken, easy slow cooker dinner, chicken with olives and tomatoes, healthy chicken recipe