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Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

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4 from 2 reviews

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered with kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, capers, and flavorful Italian seasoning. Perfect for a hands-off, savory meal, it captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a convenient slow-cooked dish.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 medium-large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4-6 boneless skinless chicken thighs)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Vegetables & Add-ins

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 cup kalamata olives
  • 1 cup roughly chopped roasted red peppers
  • 2 tablespoons capers

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh thyme, oregano, or basil

Instructions

  1. Season and Brown the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to your preference. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook each chicken breast for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. This step locks in flavor and color. Then transfer the browned chicken to a greased slow cooker.
  2. Add Vegetables and Olives: Place the chopped onion, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and capers into the slow cooker, arranging them around the sides so they don’t cover the chicken completely. This ensures even cooking and flavor infusion.
  3. Mix and Pour Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian seasoning, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker for a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  4. Slow Cook the Dish: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. This slow cooking process makes the chicken tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the dish with fresh thyme, oregano, or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious, easy Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
  • Browning the chicken before slow cooking adds depth of flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Adjust seasoning and lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
  • Serve with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.