Description
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and easy way to prepare tender chicken breasts infused with fresh garlic, olives, cherry tomatoes, and herbs. The slow cooking method ensures juicy and succulent chicken perfect for serving over rice or pasta, making it a convenient and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Finely chop the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes to prepare them for layering in the slow cooker.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, pitted black olives, and fresh basil leaves evenly over the chicken.
- Add Seasoning: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Then sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and pepper evenly to enhance flavor.
- Cover and Cook: Secure the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Serve It Up: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker with two forks to mix with the cooked vegetables and seasonings. Serve the mixture hot over rice, pasta, or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning to your taste preference, adding more or less oregano, salt, or pepper.
- For a low sodium option, reduce or omit added salt and use low sodium olives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Adding a splash of chicken broth can increase moisture and flavor if desired.
- This recipe pairs well with sides like couscous, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
