Description
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup green olives
1 cup Kalamata olives
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prep the Slow Cooker:
Add sliced onion and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle chicken breasts with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place them over the onions.
Add the Flavors:
Pour diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine vinegar over the chicken. Scatter green and Kalamata olives on top.
Cook Low and Slow:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred and Serve:
Shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it into the flavorful juices. Serve warm with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Aromatics: Thinly slice one medium onion and mince three garlic cloves. Place them in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker insert. This creates a flavorful bed that steams and infuses the chicken from below.
2. Season the Chicken: Pat four boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick. Evenly sprinkle both sides with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and smoked paprika, plus salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onion layer. Pour one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes (with juices), 1/4 cup chicken broth, and two tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken. Drizzle with one tablespoon of red wine vinegar.
4. Add Olives and Heat: Scatter one cup each of green olives and Kalamata olives over everything. For a spicy kick, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes evenly across the top.
5. Cook: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it shreds easily with a fork.
6. Finalize: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the rich sauce, olives, and softened onions.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken shines with various sides. For a classic approach, serve it over fluffy couscous, quinoa, or rice to soak up the savory sauce. It’s also excellent with roasted potatoes, cauliflower rice, or a simple green salad. Don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread or pita for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or crumbled feta cheese for a bright, finishing touch.
How-to Summary
Layer onions and garlic in the slow cooker. Top with seasoned chicken breasts. Add diced tomatoes, broth, olive oil, vinegar, and both types of olives. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours until tender. Shred the chicken in the pot and serve with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs add more flavor and stay juicier. Cook times may be similar due to the bone, but always check for tenderness.
Do I need to brown the chicken first? It’s not required for this slow-cooker method, but browning the chicken in a skillet first adds a deeper flavor and appealing color.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes. This dish stores and reheats beautifully. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Are the olives necessary? They seem strong. The olives are key for authentic Mediterranean flavor, but you can reduce the quantity to 1/2 cup each. Do not omit them entirely, as they contribute essential saltiness and depth.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? After shredding the chicken, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker, set it to HIGH, and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling your slow cooker; a 4-6 quart size is ideal for this recipe. Do not skip patting the chicken dry, as excess moisture can dilute the sauce. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently during cooking, as this releases heat and significantly increases cooking time. Finally, do not add dairy (like feta) until serving, as it can curdle during the long cook.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a quintessential set-and-forget meal that delivers complex, sun-drenched flavors with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, briny olives, and aromatic spices creates a comforting yet healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility in serving and reliable results make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.