Crockpot Greek Chicken
Crockpot Greek Chicken showcases the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken with zesty lemon, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, delivering a delightful meal with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Greek Chicken
This dish is a winner for numerous reasons. First, cooking in a crockpot infuses the chicken with rich flavors while keeping it juicy.
Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts thawed chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth can use low-sodium broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin is preferable
- 2 pieces lemons juiced; add more for extra tartness if desired
- 2 cloves garlic minced; fresh garlic for better flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano fresh herbs can be used for more flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme optional; fresh can be used
- 1 cup Kalamata olives briny flavor is key for authenticity
- salt to taste, adjust according to preference
- pepper to taste, adjust according to preference
- fresh parsley to garnish before serving for color
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the prepared mixture over the chicken.
- Add the Kalamata olives on top.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Half an hour before serving, check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred or slice the chicken as desired.
- Serve the chicken warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
Second, it’s packed with healthy ingredients that not only taste great but are good for you too. Finally, the simplicity of the recipe suits busy families, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal with little prep and no fuss.
How to Make Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces chicken breasts (thawed chicken breasts)
- 1 cup chicken broth (can use low-sodium broth)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin is preferable)
- 2 pieces lemons (juiced; add more for extra tartness if desired)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced; fresh garlic for better flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (fresh herbs can be used for more flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional; fresh can be used)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives (briny flavor is key for authenticity)
- To taste salt and pepper (adjust according to preference)
- To garnish fresh parsley (use before serving for color)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparation
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the prepared mixture over the chicken.
- Add the Kalamata olives on top.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Half an hour before serving, check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred or slice the chicken as desired.
- Serve the chicken warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
How to Serve Crockpot Greek Chicken
Crockpot Greek Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh Greek salad, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it in a warm pita or atop a bed of quinoa for a full Mediterranean-inspired meal.
How to Store Crockpot Greek Chicken
To store leftover Crockpot Greek Chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor. This dish also freezes well; place it in freezer-safe bags and store it for up to three months.
Tips to Make Crockpot Greek Chicken Perfect
- Choose Quality Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality, skinless chicken breasts.
- Adjust the Lemon: If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, add zest or an extra lemon juice.
- Olives Matter: Kalamata olives give an authentic flavor to the dish, but you can use other varieties for a different taste.
- Consistent Cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are of even size for uniform cooking.
Flavor Variations
- Herb Variations: Try using fresh dill or basil in place of thyme for a different herbal note.
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding bell peppers, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Lift the Lid: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking. Each time you do, the internal temperature can drop significantly, extending cooking time.
- Shred While Hot: For easier shredding, do it while the chicken is still hot right after cooking.
- Use the Juices: Spoon the broth over the chicken when serving for added moisture and flavor.
FAQs About Crockpot Greek Chicken
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Using frozen chicken breasts is possible, but it’s recommended to thaw them first for even cooking. If you cook from frozen, increase the cooking time and ensure they reach 165°F for safety.
2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook for about 10 minutes. Allow a natural release for best results. This method speeds up the overall cooking process.
3. What are some good side dishes for this recipe?
Many sides complement Crockpot Greek Chicken well. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes, couscous, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. Crusty bread also works perfectly for soaking up the delicious juices.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Greek Chicken is an effortless way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table. Packed with juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and briny olives, it’s a meal your family will adore. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the ease of a crockpot meal while indulging in the delightful taste of Greece!
