This Crockpot Greek Chicken is an easy and tasty dish! With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs, it makes a delicious meal without the fuss.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work for me. Just toss everything in and come back to a savory dinner. Perfect for busy days or when I want more time on the couch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be used instead for a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned diced tomatoes provide a lot of flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can substitute them, but consider adding a bit of extra liquid as fresh tomatoes aren’t as juicy.
Kalamata Olives: These olives give a distinct Mediterranean taste. If you’re not a fan or need a substitute, try green olives or even capers for a different zing.
Red Onion: Red onion adds sweetness and color. You could swap in yellow or white onion if preferred, but they may require a little more cooking to soften.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are traditional in Greek cuisine. Fresh herbs can replace them, but I suggest using about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried for the best flavor.
How Do You Get Juicy and Tender Chicken in a Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot allows it to become beautifully tender, but you must pay attention to a few key details.
- Layer the chicken at the bottom of the pot; it helps it cook evenly.
- Make sure to cover the chicken with enough liquid; this keeps it moist.
- Cooking on low for longer produces the best results. The slow cooking allows flavors to meld and chicken to tenderize perfectly.
Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Crockpot Greek Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you will need to cook it for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a hassle-free meal that allows you to set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the four chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base for all those delicious ingredients!
2. Mix the Flavors:
In a mixing bowl, combine the undrained diced tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, pitted and halved kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir it all together so the flavors blend.
3. Layer It Up:
Pour this flavorful tomato and olive mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure to cover the chicken well so it absorbs all the wonderful flavors as it cooks.
4. Add Some Zing:
Place the lemon slices on top of the chicken. This will add a fresh zing to the dish as it cooks!
5. Cook and Relax:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and flavorful. You can relax or go about your day while the crockpot does all the work!
6. Final Touch:
Once cooking is done, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and give the sauce a good stir to blend everything together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the chicken on plates, spoon the sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh thyme if you like. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or some crusty bread to soak up all the tasty sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the normal 3-4 hours on high. It’s important to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety. If possible, try to thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge for the best texture!
Can I Substitute the Kalamata Olives?
Absolutely! If you don’t have kalamata olives, you can use green olives or any other type of pitted olives you prefer. Just keep in mind that different olives may slightly change the flavor profile, but it’ll still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Crockpot Greek Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or quinoa to soak up the sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad. Don’t forget some crusty bread to complete the meal!
