Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken: A Flavorful Journey

Imagine a succulent, tender chicken, infused with the bright, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Picture juicy chicken breasts, bathed in a rich sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fragrant herbs, all effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker. That’s the magic of this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary escape, transporting you to sun-drenched shores and bustling Mediterranean markets with every delicious bite. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen; this dish is designed for busy weeknights and effortless entertaining. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a truly unforgettable experience. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and the breathtaking taste of this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe!

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

This easy slow cooker recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken infused with Mediterranean herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 14.5 ounce can Diced tomatoes undrained
• 8 ounces Sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed, drained (reserve oil)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup Red onion thinly sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1/4 cup Feta cheese crumbled
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil plus reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes (undrained), sun-dried tomatoes (drained, reserving oil), Kalamata olives, red onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil plus the reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
• Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
• Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
• Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword chicken, dinner, easy, healthy, mediterranean, slow cooker, weeknight

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to come home to a delicious and aromatic dinner. It’s also ideal for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a stunning centerpiece for any dinner party, impressing your guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! No need for constant stirring or monitoring the slow cooker does all the work, freeing up your time for other things. This is especially beneficial for busy individuals or families with demanding schedules. Second, the flavors are unbelievably delicious. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garlic, and herbs creates a complex and satisfying taste profile that’s both bright and savory. The slow cooking process allows these flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the chicken perfectly. Third, it’s incredibly versatile. This recipe can be served in various ways, from a simple dinner with rice or couscous to a more elaborate meal with roasted vegetables. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Furthermore, the Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is incredibly healthy. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, providing essential nutrients without excessive fat. The abundance of vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to your diet. Finally, the recipe is budget-friendly. The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a delicious and affordable meal option for any family. This is a dish that ticks all the boxes easy, delicious, healthy, and economical making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. It’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite and a go-to for effortless entertaining. Imagine the compliments you’ll receive!

Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

In a world of fast food and quick fixes, taking the time to cook a healthy and flavorful meal is a true act of self-care. This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe isn’t just about feeding your body; it’s about nurturing your soul. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices will transport your senses to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, creating a comforting and enjoyable culinary experience. Forget the stress of meal preparation; this recipe allows you to reclaim your time and savor the process of creating a nourishing and delicious meal. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, releasing you from the kitchen and allowing you to reconnect with loved ones or pursue other activities while your dinner simmers to perfection.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to experiment with flavors and personalize the dish to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or incorporate different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients. You can also adjust the herbs and spices to your preference, creating a unique and flavorful dish every time. This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey of discovery, a chance to explore the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, all while enjoying the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a truly delicious and healthy meal. It’s a chance to nourish your body and soul simultaneously, an experience that’s both rewarding and delightful.

Ingredients and Utensils for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Choosing high-quality, fresh chicken is essential for optimal flavor. Look for plump, firm breasts with a slight pinkish hue. Keyword: Chicken Breast
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Undrained tomatoes add moisture and acidity to the sauce, which is crucial for the tenderness of the chicken and the overall flavor of the dish. Keyword: Diced Tomatoes
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 (8 ounce) package sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained (reserve oil). Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated burst of umami flavor and sweetness. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the slow cooker. Keyword: Sun-Dried Tomatoes
• Kalamata Olives: ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved. These briny olives provide a salty, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes. Pitting and halving them ensures even distribution of flavor. Keyword: Kalamata Olives
• Red Onion: ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced. Red onion adds a sharp, sweet bite that complements the other flavors in the dish. Thinly slicing it helps it to cook evenly and prevents it from becoming overly strong. Keyword: Red Onion
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for achieving the best flavor. Using pre-minced garlic from a jar will significantly impact the taste. Keyword: Garlic
• Feta Cheese: ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese. Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy, and creamy element to the dish. Crumbling it ensures even distribution throughout the sauce. Keyword: Feta Cheese
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes). Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes adds another layer of flavor. Keyword: Olive Oil
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Dried oregano is preferred in this recipe to withstand the long cooking time. Fresh oregano can be added at the end for a fresher taste. Keyword: Oregano
• Basil: ½ teaspoon dried basil. Basil adds a slightly sweet, peppery note that complements the other herbs. Keyword: Basil
• Salt & Pepper: ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Adjust these seasonings to your preference. Start with less and add more as needed at the end of the cooking time. Keyword: Salt and Pepper
• Parsley: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish). Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh taste to the finished dish. Keyword: Parsley

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. Ensure it is clean and in good working order. Keyword: Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for safely chopping the vegetables. Keyword: Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife will make chopping the vegetables much easier and safer. Keyword: Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring is essential for achieving the best results. Keyword: Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients in the slow cooker before cooking. Keyword: Wooden Spoon
• Serving Dish: A beautiful serving dish is perfect for showcasing your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken. Consider a rustic bowl or platter to complement the Mediterranean theme. Keyword: Serving Dish

Detailed Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and prepping all your ingredients. Thinly slice the red onion, mince the garlic, and pit and halve the Kalamata olives. Drain the sun-dried tomatoes, reserving the oil. **This step is crucial for efficient cooking.**
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the drained sun-dried tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), red onion, minced garlic, Kalamata olives, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. **Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed.**
3. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Then, add the reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. **This adds richness and depth of flavor.**
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. **Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker.**
5. Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. **Be careful as the liquid will be hot.**
6. Return Chicken to Slow Cooker: Add the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce. **Ensure the chicken is well coated.**
7. Stir in Feta: Gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese. **Avoid overmixing, as the feta can become too mushy.**
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot over rice, couscous, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables. **A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a delightful zing.**

Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. To make it a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous, or pair it with roasted vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add other vegetables such as artichoke hearts or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. For a heartier meal, consider adding chickpeas or white beans to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche before serving. For a richer sauce, you can substitute chicken broth for some of the diced tomatoes.

Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before shredding to avoid foodborne illnesses. Avoid over-mixing the feta cheese, as this can make it overly mushy. To prevent the chicken from drying out, use a slow cooker liner, which will also make cleanup easier. If you are using frozen chicken, add an additional hour to the cooking time. Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Taste and adjust before serving.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle building and repair. It’s also a good source of niacin and vitamin B6. The tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Kalamata olives provide healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. The red onion is a good source of vitamin C and quercetin, another antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic boasts numerous health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and potential cardiovascular protection. Sun-dried tomatoes are concentrated in nutrients, providing significant amounts of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, important for bone health. The herbs, oregano and basil, are packed with antioxidants and contribute to the overall flavor and health benefits of the dish. Overall, this recipe provides a balanced and nutritious meal, rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The precise nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. However, a general estimate per serving could be around 350-400 calories, with approximately 30-40g of protein, 15-20g of fat, and 10-15g of carbohydrates. Remember that this is an approximation and could change.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a touch of Mediterranean magic. The ease of preparation, the explosion of flavors, and the inherent health benefits make it a winner for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its deliciousness and simplicity. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with us in the comments below! And if you’re looking for other delicious slow cooker recipes or some inspiration for side dishes, check out our other recipes on stuffed shells or our creamy shrimp tortellini for a complete meal. For a sweet treat, try our cranberry brie pull-apart bread!

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