This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is a simple, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. With tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a zesty olive oil and lemon marinade, it’s infused with Mediterranean flavors that include garlic, oregano, thyme, and Kalamata olives. The dish is then topped with creamy feta cheese and fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It requires minimal effort but delivers a dish that’s packed with taste and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is the answer. It combines the deliciously tangy and savory flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, all cooked in one pot. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, leaving you with perfectly tender chicken that’s infused with lemon, garlic, and herbs. The addition of Kalamata olives and feta cheese at the end adds a creamy, salty contrast to the rich chicken. It’s a healthy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a busy schedule and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Dried thyme
Salt and pepper
Chicken broth
Kalamata olives, pitted
Feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped

Variations

Substitute Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful option, you can use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding sliced bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini to the slow cooker to make the dish heartier and add more Mediterranean flair.
Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh, and replace the feta with a vegan cheese alternative.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the slow cooker along with the garlic and herbs.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the olive oil marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker to provide moisture while the chicken cooks.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Add the Olives

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the Kalamata olives to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked through, serve the chicken breasts on a platter. Top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and extra Kalamata olives if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Check the Chicken: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Make it Even More Flavorful: Marinate the chicken in the olive oil mixture for a few hours before cooking for an even richer flavor.
Shredded Chicken Option: For a different texture, shred the cooked chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce before serving.

How to Serve

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken can be served in a variety of ways:

Over a bed of rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
With roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes.
In a pita wrap with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
As a topping for a Mediterranean-style salad with greens, cucumber, and tomatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will continue to absorb the marinade flavors as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in the microwave for a few minutes or gently on the stovetop in a covered pan with a little chicken broth to maintain moisture. You can also reheat it in the slow cooker on the “low” setting for 1-2 hours.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and will yield even juicier meat.

2. Can I make this dish without olives?

Yes, the olives are optional, but they do add a unique Mediterranean flavor.

3. Can I substitute the chicken broth?

Vegetable broth can be used for a different flavor profile or if you’re looking for a non-chicken alternative.

4. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this recipe on high for 3-4 hours, but the chicken will be slightly more tender if cooked on low for 6-8 hours.

5. How can I make the chicken spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to the slow cooker with the garlic and herbs.

6. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

7. How do I make this a low-carb dish?

Serve it with a salad instead of rice or use cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative.

8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh oregano and thyme can be used. You’ll need to double the amount since fresh herbs are less potent than dried.

9. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh, and use vegan feta cheese for a vegetarian version.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s packed with Mediterranean flavors and requires very little effort to prepare. With tender chicken, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Whether served over rice, in a wrap, or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish is versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious.