Name: Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium red onion, sliced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes); 1/2 cup Kalamata or green olives, sliced; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish); Optional: crumbled feta cheese or lemon wedges for serving

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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful, wholesome dish that brings the bright, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean straight to the dinner table. With tender chicken slow-cooked in a savory blend of tomatoes, olives, garlic, and herbs, it’s the perfect meal for busy days when I want something healthy, hearty, and comforting. I love how the slow cooker makes everything so tender and flavorful with minimal effort.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, easy, and full of flavor. The slow cooker does all the work while the ingredients infuse together into a beautiful, aromatic sauce. It’s a lighter dish but still filling and satisfying, especially when I serve it over rice, couscous, or pasta. The Mediterranean ingredients—like olives, garlic, and herbs—give it a vibrant, rustic flavor that tastes like something from a cozy coastal kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Red onion (sliced)
Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Kalamata or green olives (sliced)
Sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for extra richness)
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Optional: crumbled feta cheese or lemon wedges for serving

Directions

I drizzle olive oil in the bottom of the slow cooker and add the chicken in a single layer.
I season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and paprika.
I add the garlic, onion, diced tomatoes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes on top.
I cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Before serving, I taste and adjust the seasoning, then garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
I serve it over rice, quinoa, or couscous, and top with crumbled feta if I want a creamy, tangy finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours (on low)
Total time: About 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add artichoke hearts or chickpeas for extra Mediterranean flavor and heartiness.
For a bit of spice, I add red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa.
A splash of white wine or lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
I make it creamy by stirring in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. It also freezes well—I let it cool completely, then store it in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but I prefer boneless for easy shredding. If using bone-in, I cook on low for closer to 7–8 hours.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking the next morning.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken?

I like to serve it over rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes with a simple green salad on the side.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, I substitute chickpeas or white beans for the chicken and reduce the cooking time to 3 hours on low.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

No, it’s optional. I sometimes sear it for extra flavor, but it turns out delicious either way.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting yet light and flavorful. I love how the slow cooker infuses the chicken with all those Mediterranean herbs, tomatoes, and olives, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether I serve it for an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with friends, it’s always a hit and makes my kitchen smell amazing all day long.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

storage/reheating