Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and simple preparation techniques. This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a perfect example of a dish that brings together aromatic herbs, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives to create a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a busy weeknight or looking for a dish to impress guests, this slow cooker recipe offers a hassle-free approach to bold Mediterranean flavors. The best part? It requires minimal effort while allowing the slow cooker to work its magic, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken infused with delicious seasonings.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 6 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
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 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Thinly slice the onion, mince the garlic, and set aside the olives. If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can lightly sear the chicken breasts in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds extra richness to the dish.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the minced garlic. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with deep Mediterranean flavors as they slowly cook.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Seasonings
Arrange the chicken breasts over the onions. Sprinkle the dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes evenly over the chicken. These spices will enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients while complementing the Mediterranean taste profile.
Step 4: Add the Olives and Tomatoes
Pour the diced tomatoes and their juices over the chicken. Scatter the green olives and Kalamata olives around the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed. These ingredients add a delightful briny taste that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Olive Oil
Gently pour the chicken broth over the mixture to keep the chicken moist throughout the slow cooking process. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the top for added richness.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 7: Let the Chicken Rest and Garnish
Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes the chicken even more tender. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Mediterranean chicken with lemon slices on the side to add a citrusy brightness to the dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy couscous, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic spices, briny olives, and vibrant tomatoes creates a meal that is both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Whether you are cooking for a busy family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this slow cooker recipe ensures a stress-free experience while delivering restaurant-quality flavors.
The best part about this dish is its versatility—you can customize it by adding artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or feta cheese to elevate the flavors further. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
Give this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken a try, and enjoy a dish that is packed with wholesome ingredients, rich flavors, and the warmth of home-cooked comfort. Bon appétit!