Description
Make slow cooker Mediterranean chicken with tender chicken, olives, and fresh herbs. A flavorful, healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts for a leaner option)
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (jarred or homemade)
- 1 cup olives (Castelvetrano, Kalamata, or your preferred variety)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
Flavor Boosters:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp capers (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Finishing Touches:
- 1 lemon, juiced (for serving)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach or kale (stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking)
- Sundried tomatoes (for a richer, tangy flavor)
- Artichoke hearts (canned or frozen, drained)
Instructions
Step1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Slice and chop: Thinly slice the sweet onion and chop the roasted red peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season them on both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step locks in flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Spread the sliced onions evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions.
- Scatter the roasted red peppers, olives, and capers (if using) around the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is moist.
Step 4: Season and Cook
- Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, and remaining oregano evenly over the ingredients. Add the bay leaf.
- Cover and cook:
- Low heat: 6–8 hours for tender, fall-apart chicken.
- High heat: 3–4 hours for a faster option.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
- If adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking and let it wilt.
- Before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for brightness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the chicken with your choice of sides, such as orzo, couscous, or cauliflower rice.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley or basil for a pop of flavor and color.
Notes
- High in Protein: Ideal for maintaining muscle and supporting a healthy diet.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The olives and olive oil contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Low in Carbohydrates: Great for those on low-carb or keto diets.
- Packed with Nutrients: Provides vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Cook Time: High Heat: 3–4 hours
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: based on a recipe serving 6)
- Calories: 264 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg