Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken: A Vibrant & Flavorful Classic Dish 🍗🌿🫒
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for Mediterranean recipes that combine ease, healthfulness, and vibrant flavors, then this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is perfect for you. As one of the top Mediterranean diet dinner recipes easy, it offers a hearty yet light meal that can be prepared effortlessly in your slow cooker. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or feeding your family, this dish brings the fresh taste of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. It’s a delicious Mediterranean recipe that embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean diet and is ideal for those looking for slow cooker recipes Mediterranean and Mediterranean chicken recipes.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mediterranean Chicken in a Slow Cooker
Preparation and assembly
First, gather all ingredients and prepare your slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Cooking process
Add diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers over the chicken. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper evenly over the mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
Finishing touches
Once cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve this Mediterranean diet dinner recipes easy dish with warm crusty bread or over cooked rice for a filling and nutritious meal.
4. Storage Tips for Your Mediterranean Chicken
Leftover slow cooker simple recipes like this Mediterranean chicken can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious meal. Storage tips are essential to keep this dish tasting fresh and flavorful for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Mediterranean Meal
This Mediterranean chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or couscous. For added flavor, top with crumbled feta cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon. To explore more Mediterranean recipes that fit your healthy lifestyle, try serving with a light Greek salad or hummus and pita bread for a complete Mediterranean feast.
6. Benefits of Making Mediterranean Recipes in a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker to prepare Mediterranean recipes for a crowd offers various benefits. It simplifies meal prep, retains moisture in the chicken, and enhances the flavors over long cooking periods. A Crock-Pot family-size slow cooker is perfect for this recipe, providing convenience and consistent results. Incorporating slow cooker recipes Mediterranean style can be a game-changer for busy families and health-conscious individuals alike.
7. Variations and Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Chicken
Customize your Italian protein recipes by adding artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Use skinless chicken to keep the dish light or add a splash of white wine for depth. For a no-cook Mediterranean recipes twist, serve the cooked chicken over fresh greens topped with kalamata olives and a vinaigrette. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to personalize your dish.
8. Related Recipes to Enhance Your Mediterranean Cooking Skills
If you enjoyed this Mediterranean chicken recipe, explore more recipes like smothered chicken and rice or try out easy, flavorful dishes that complement your Mediterranean diet. For quick snacks, consider our delicious appetizer options or try other family-friendly dinner ideas that bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table.
9. Conclusion
Incorporating Mediterranean diet dinner recipes easy like this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken makes healthy eating both simple and delicious. Not only does this recipe showcase the vibrant and fresh flavors of the Mediterranean, but it also fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle, thanks to the convenience of slow cooking. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a weeknight family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy, nutritious, and flavorful recipe that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean recipes for any occasion.
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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Healthy, Gluten-Free
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and nutritious Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, olives, and herbs, delivering a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers over the chicken.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper evenly over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
- Once cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread, rice, or your preferred side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use skinless chicken for a lighter dish.
- Stir in a splash of white wine during cooking for added depth.
- To keep leftovers fresh, store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
