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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe


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4.1 from 84 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and easy way to enjoy tender chicken thighs infused with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients like kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and capers. Perfect for a hands-off cooking experience, this dish brings together bold flavors cooked low and slow, topped optionally with feta cheese for a creamy finish.


Ingredients

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 6-9 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon

Vegetables and Add-ins

  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • 8 oz roasted red peppers
  • 2 tbsp capers
  • 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth

Optional Topping

  • Feta cheese, for serving


Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them evenly with salt and ground black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden crust. This step adds depth to the flavor.
  3. Prepare Slow Cooker Base: In the slow cooker, add the sliced onions, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, capers, and chicken broth. These ingredients will create a rich and aromatic base for the chicken to cook in.
  4. Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Arrange the browned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
  5. Add Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables to infuse bright, herby flavors throughout.
  6. Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for at least 4 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken while blending all the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
  7. Serve: Once cooked, optionally sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of the chicken for a creamy and tangy finish. Serve hot, pairing it with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For best results, do not skip the browning step as it adds a deeper flavor to the chicken.
  • Adjust the cooking time if using a high setting on your slow cooker; 2-3 hours on high should suffice.
  • Feta cheese is optional but highly recommended for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
  • Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the feta topping.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean