The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting in this effortless Greek chicken dish, leaving you with juicy, tender bites infused with Mediterranean flavors. Kalamata olives and roasted red peppers add a rich, briny depth, while a touch of feta brings creamy, tangy contrast to each bite.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. It’s healthy, hearty, and feels like a mini escape to the Aegean coast. Serve it over rice, alongside fresh pita, or with a crisp salad for a satisfying and complete meal. It’s a comforting way to enjoy vibrant ingredients with very little prep and all the flavor.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
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1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
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1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon dried oregano
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup chicken broth
Directions:
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Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a touch of olive oil.
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Place chicken pieces into the slow cooker and top with kalamata olives, red onion, and roasted red peppers.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
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Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
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Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the chicken, cover again, and allow it to warm and slightly melt.
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Serve warm, optionally with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5–6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours
Kcal: 312 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Everything You Need to Know About Greek Slow Cooker Chicken
When it comes to comfort food that’s easy to make, healthy, and absolutely packed with flavor, Greek Slow Cooker Chicken is a clear winner. This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together the bold, sun-drenched ingredients of Greece—like olives, lemon, oregano, roasted peppers, and feta—into one cohesive, tender, and aromatic meal. And the best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work.
This isn’t just another chicken recipe. It’s a smart solution for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who wants to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is as straightforward as it is impressive.
The Origin and Mediterranean Influence
The inspiration for this dish comes from the traditional flavors of Greek cuisine, which is rooted in fresh, vibrant ingredients and simple preparations. In Greek households, chicken is often cooked with garlic, oregano, lemon, and olive oil—flavors that are bold but balanced. This recipe captures that essence while adapting it for modern, busy lives through the convenience of a slow cooker.
Greek cuisine is known for being heart-healthy, thanks to its reliance on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and olive oil. It aligns closely with the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which has been consistently ranked as one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world. This recipe mirrors those same benefits in every bite.
Why This Recipe Is So Good
There are so many reasons why this Greek Slow Cooker Chicken is a must-try. Here are just a few:
- Effortless Prep
You only need about 10 minutes of hands-on time. Just place everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner. - Full of Flavor
The ingredients marinate and slow-simmer in their own juices, developing a deep, complex flavor. The lemon juice adds brightness, the oregano offers earthiness, the olives bring saltiness, and the feta adds a creamy, tangy finish. - Healthy & Balanced
Packed with lean protein and Mediterranean vegetables, this recipe fits easily into many diets, including low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly plans. - Family-Friendly
This dish is savory without being spicy, making it ideal for adults and kids alike. You can also adjust the toppings to individual tastes—extra olives for some, less onion for others. - Versatile Serving Options
Serve it over rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, couscous, or warm pita bread. It also pairs beautifully with Greek salad, tzatziki, or roasted potatoes. - Meal Prep-Friendly
Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully and can even be frozen for later use.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to its overall nutrition profile and health benefits.
- Chicken
A great source of lean protein, chicken helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer. It’s lower in fat than red meat and works well in heart-healthy diets. - Kalamata Olives
Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, olives are also a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. - Feta Cheese
This tangy Greek cheese adds a creamy texture and a boost of calcium and protein. Feta is also lower in fat and calories than many other cheeses. - Olive Oil
A cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and is full of antioxidants. - Garlic & Oregano
Both garlic and oregano have antibacterial and antiviral properties. They also enhance the flavor without needing excess salt or sugar. - Lemon Juice
Not only does lemon juice brighten the flavor, but it also offers a healthy dose of vitamin C and helps tenderize the meat as it cooks.
How to Customize the Dish
One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some fun ways to change things up:
- Add veggies like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to make it even heartier.
- Spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa for a North African twist.
- Use thighs or breasts depending on your preference. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Make it creamy by stirring in a little Greek yogurt at the end for a rich, tangy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what to serve with Greek Slow Cooker Chicken? Here are some delicious ideas:
- Pita bread or flatbread to soak up all the juices
- Lemon rice or herbed couscous
- Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, and olives
- Roasted potatoes with oregano and olive oil
- Tzatziki or hummus on the side
You can also shred the chicken and stuff it into pita pockets with chopped veggies and sauce for an easy Mediterranean-style wrap.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the lemon juice. It’s essential for flavor and helps keep the chicken tender.
- Add feta at the end so it doesn’t melt completely. You want those creamy, tangy bites on top!
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake. The olives and feta already provide enough saltiness.
Who Will Love This Dish?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy parents who need a nutritious, crowd-pleasing dinner
- Meal preppers looking for flavorful, reheatable meals
- Mediterranean diet followers who crave authentic flavors
- Anyone tired of bland chicken dinners
- Couples and singles who want leftovers that don’t feel repetitive
What Makes It Stand Out From Other Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes?
Unlike heavy, cream-based slow cooker recipes, this one is light, bright, and refreshing. It doesn’t rely on sauces or soups for flavor—instead, it uses a simple blend of real ingredients to create something naturally delicious.
The brininess of the olives, the sweetness of the roasted red peppers, and the tang of feta make each bite uniquely satisfying. It’s a dish that proves “lazy” doesn’t have to mean boring.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that’s as nourishing as it is tasty, this Greek Slow Cooker Chicken is a must-make. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. From its Mediterranean roots to its modern convenience, every bite feels like a warm, rustic escape—no plane ticket required.
Make it once and you’ll see why this dish is one of the best ways to enjoy a taste of Greece at home. Opa!