Mediterranean Chicken Crockpot Dinner
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with Mediterranean flavors, this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is the perfect story. Growing up, I learned how to coax bold flavors out of simple ingredients, and this recipe feels like that same kitchen magic.
The chicken simmers slowly, soaking in tomatoes, artichokes, olives, and fragrant spices until every bite bursts with brightness. This is one of those Mediterranean diet recipes dinners that feels light but still comforting, and it makes weeknight cooking effortless.
Whether you follow a Mediterranean diet meal plan or just want a wholesome crockpot recipe, this dish is a winner.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 6 hours |
| Total Time | 6 hours 15 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
| Best Season | All year round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless prep: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinnertime.
- Healthy and filling: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and heart-healthy olives, it’s perfect for the Mediterranean diet plan.
- Versatile serving options: Serve it over couscous, rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Flavor-packed: The curry powder, herbs, and olives add layers of flavor that only get better as it cooks.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love the tender chicken and mild spices.
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow cooker Mediterranean chicken is quick and easy to prep and bursting with bright, healthy flavors. Serve over rice or couscous for a delicious dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 heaping tablespoon curry powder
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 oz.) can whole tomatoes, mostly drained and chopped
- 2 (14 oz.) cans quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Place chicken breasts in the insert of the slow cooker.
2. Combine curry powder, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Season chicken with half of the mixture.
3. Add remaining ingredients (except fresh parsley) to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in remaining seasoning.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours).
5. Remove chicken, chop or shred, then return to the slow cooker to soak juices for 5-10 minutes.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve over couscous, rice, quinoa, or pasta.
Notes
Tomatoes: Drain well to prevent watery sauce. Diced tomatoes work too.
Serving: Use a slotted spoon to control liquid in each serving.
Extra olives: Add ¼ cup more if you love a stronger flavor.
Storing: Refrigerate 4-5 days or freeze up to 4 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 554mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 49g
- Cholesterol: 129mg
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 heaping tablespoon curry powder
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 oz) can whole tomatoes, mostly drained and chopped
- 2 (14 oz) cans quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (to garnish)
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
| Chicken breasts | Swap with boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat. |
| Curry powder | Adjust to taste, or use garam masala for a twist. |
| Whole tomatoes | Drain well to prevent watery sauce, or use diced tomatoes. |
| Artichoke hearts | Use marinated ones for extra flavor, just rinse lightly. |
| Olives | Kalamata gives the best flavor, but green olives work too. |
| White wine vinegar | Sub with red wine vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. |
| Fresh herbs | Parsley keeps it fresh, while cilantro adds bold zest. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker insert. Season with half of the curry powder, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomatoes, artichoke hearts, chicken broth, onion, olives, and vinegar to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the remaining seasoning mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or on high for 3-4 hours) until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces. Return to the slow cooker, stirring to soak up the flavorful juices. Let rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy over couscous, rice, quinoa, or pasta.
Helpful Tips
- Use a slotted spoon when serving to control how much liquid goes onto each plate.
- Add extra olives if you’re a fan of their briny flavor.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of olive oil before serving.
- Cook on low whenever possible, since the long cooking time builds deeper flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Always drain your tomatoes well to avoid watery sauce.
- If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker to soak up all the juices.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to balance the flavors.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Mediterranean Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a fresh chili pepper for heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas for a hearty plant-based option.
- Creamy Style: Stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt right before serving for a creamy texture.
- Mediterranean Chicken Stew: Serve it as a soup by keeping more of the cooking liquid.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prep all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them in the slow cooker insert. Just pop it in and cook the next day. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mediterranean chicken over fluffy couscous, nutty quinoa, or tender rice. For a rustic feel, pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
Pairing Ideas
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light red like Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon works beautifully. As a side, serve with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For a quick option, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
Do I have to use curry powder? No, you can swap it for smoked paprika or cumin if you prefer a different spice profile.
Can I make this without olives? Yes, simply leave them out or replace with capers for a similar briny flavor.
What’s the best side dish? Couscous is the classic choice, but brown rice or roasted potatoes also pair nicely.
Can I double this recipe? Absolutely, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients.
Is this freezer-friendly? Yes, freeze for up to 4 months, then thaw overnight and reheat.
Can I make it in an Instant Pot? Yes, cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then shred the chicken and mix back in.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 305 kcal |
| Protein | 49 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is proof that healthy crockpot recipes can be both easy and bursting with flavor. Try it tonight and bring a little sunshine and Mediterranean magic to your dinner table!
Hosting guests? Impress them with our Flavorful Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps.
