This Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken is a simple and tasty dish! You just toss chicken breasts in with some juicy tomatoes, olives, and spices. Perfect for a busy day!
I love how the slow cooker makes the chicken super tender. Plus, the smell while it cooks is just heavenly! Serve it over rice or with pita, and you’re all set for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they soak up flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for juiciness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and acidity. If you can’t find them, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Just drain the liquid a bit before adding!
Kalamata Olives: They give a briny kick. If olives aren’t your thing, try artichoke hearts or capers for a different flavor. Black olives are a milder substitute too.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh is best for flavor. If you’re short on fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but adjust to taste as it can be stronger.
Feta Cheese: I love adding feta for a creamy finish. If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled avocado or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
Achieving perfectly tender chicken in the crockpot is all about cooking time and moisture balance. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to layer the ingredients properly, with chicken at the bottom to absorb the juices.
- Keep the lid closed while cooking; every time you open it, you let out heat!
- For best results, try not to overcook. Check the chicken after the minimum cooking time to avoid drying it out.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving; it helps the juices redistribute.
With these tips, your chicken will be moist and flavorful every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Optional: 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires just 10 minutes of prep time. You can set it in the crockpot and let it cook! It will take about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This way, they will cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, sprinkle the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. These ingredients will add great flavors and aromas.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and ground black pepper. This sauce will bring everything together.
4. Pour It On:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies in the crockpot. Make sure everything is well-coated with flavor!
5. Cook It:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be tender and full of flavor when done!
6. Finish & Serve:
If you want, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving for an extra touch. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the dish hot over rice, quinoa, or with warm pita bread.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Greek-inspired crockpot chicken!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method in a sealed bag for a quicker option.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor and moisture, or you could use a lower amount of olive oil. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional content.
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and mix the sauce the night before. Just store everything in the refrigerator separately, then layer the chicken and ingredients in the crockpot in the morning when you’re ready to cook.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you notice the chicken has dried out a bit, add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to moisten it back up.
