If you have ever dreamed of bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your cozy kitchen without the fuss, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe will be your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs that sing together with sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, yet it delivers layered flavors and irresistible aromas that fill your home with warmth and invite everyone to the table. Whether you want a comforting weeknight meal or something special for guests, this recipe balances ease with elegance flawlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is in its harmony of straightforward, heart-healthy, and colorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role — from juicy chicken thighs providing tender protein, to fragrant herbs enhancing the earthy notes, and bright lemon juice brightening every bite.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for moist, succulent chicken that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Adds rich Mediterranean depth and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory warmth that is classic Greek flavor.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds subtle tang and complexity to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A quintessential herb that embodies Greek cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers gentle, earthy herbal notes that balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the chicken and seasonings.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild peppery kick.
- 1 small red onion, sliced: Softens during cooking to add sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives: Introduce briny, savory bursts that make each bite unique.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Bring a concentrated, sweet-tart touch that complements the olives.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for serving): A creamy and salty finishing touch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): A fresh, herbal note that brightens the plated dish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful marinade is the backbone of the dish, blending bright acidity with fragrant herbs that infuse the chicken during cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker, then pour the marinade evenly over them. Add the sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated with those vibrant flavors, creating a beautiful mix of textures and aromas ready to mingle over hours of cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low and slow method is what transforms this chicken into tender, fall-apart goodness while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience here pays off with juicy chicken and a rich, comforting sauce.
Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving
When the cooking time is up and your kitchen smells like a Mediterranean dream, spoon some of those flavorful cooking juices over the chicken. Sprinkle generously with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley if you like. These final touches add creaminess and freshness that perfectly round out the dish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe effortlessly. Crumbled feta not only lends creamy saltiness but also brings authentic Greek character to the dish. Freshly chopped parsley or even a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds that fresh, vibrant finish every serving deserves.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy couscous, steamed rice, or warm pita bread to soak up all those silky juices. For a complete Greek-inspired meal, serve alongside a crisp Greek salad or cooling tzatziki sauce, creating harmony between savory, fresh, and creamy elements.
Creative Ways to Present
If you feel like jazzing it up, try serving the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe over a bed of herbed quinoa or alongside roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. For a casual gathering, pile it high on pita with fresh veggies and tzatziki for a hand-held gyro-style treat. Presentation can be as simple or as creative as you like, and either way, this dish shines.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps retain moisture and revives that luscious sauce beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be substituted but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out, so reduce the cooking time slightly to preserve juiciness.
Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?
While not required, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors and makes the chicken even more tender. It’s a wonderful step if you have time but the dish is still delicious without it.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes can make this a one-pot meal. Just be mindful of their cooking times and add accordingly.
What can I use instead of Kalamata olives?
If Kalamata olives aren’t available, any pitted black olives will work. They might be milder in flavor but still add a lovely briny note.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides like rice or gluten-free pita bread.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels special but is incredibly easy to prepare. With every flavor-packed bite, you’ll taste the care and simplicity of Mediterranean cooking come to life. Whether feeding family or impressing friends, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate!
Print
Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken thighs cooked low and slow with a zesty marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and tangy Kalamata olives. Enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and finished with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, it’s an easy, wholesome Mediterranean-inspired main dish perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Add-ins
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
For Serving
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, then add the sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Toss the mixture gently to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and distribute the add-ins.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 7 hours, or alternatively on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, spoon some of the cooking juices over the chicken for added moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the chicken with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside rice, couscous, or pita bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Chicken breasts may be substituted for thighs, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying out the meat.
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight before cooking in the slow cooker.
- Pair this dish with tzatziki sauce or a refreshing Greek salad for a full Mediterranean-inspired meal.
