This Crockpot Greek Chicken is a tasty and easy meal that you can set and forget! Packed with juicy chicken, bright lemon, and fragrant herbs, it’s full of flavor!
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing as it cooks. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days—just toss everything in and let the magic happen. Easy peasy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide great flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, skinless thighs or boneless breasts can work. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they can dry out more quickly.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a nice sweetness to the dish. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, regular tomatoes diced into chunks can be used instead, but add them closer to the end of cooking to prevent them from breaking down completely.
Kalamata Olives: They bring a rich, salty flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives are a decent substitute, though they have a different taste. For a milder choice, you might even skip olives altogether.
Feta Cheese: This tangy cheese is perfect for garnishing. If you want something different, try goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan. Vegan feta can be a great dairy-free alternative too.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Tender in the Crockpot?
To ensure your chicken turns out tender and juicy, follow these tips:
- Use bone-in pieces, as they hold moisture better during cooking.
- Season liberally before cooking. The spices bond with the chicken as it cooks.
- Cook on low heat when possible. This method allows flavors to meld while gently cooking the chicken, resulting in perfect tenderness.
- Don’t overcook! Monitor the time closely to avoid drying the chicken out.
How to Make Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 lb chicken wings
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 lemons, sliced
For Seasoning:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Greek Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and then you just need to let it cook for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. It’s perfect for a hassle-free, tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs and wings. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme, making sure to rub the spices evenly all over the chicken. This will help infuse amazing flavors into the meat!
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to assemble everything in your crockpot. Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced yellow bell pepper, sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Layering these ingredients will create a wonderful mix of flavors as they cook together.
3. Add Garlic and Lemon:
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the layer of veggies and then top it all off with the lemon slices. The garlic and lemons will add a lovely aroma and zesty flavor to your dish. Don’t skimp on this step!
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Take your olive oil and pour it evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crockpot with the lid and choose your cooking setting. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful everything will be!
6. Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the crockpot. Serve everything warm on a plate, topped with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pita, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Thighs or Wings?
Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but be sure to reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on low to prevent them from drying out. Chicken drumsticks are another great option that will add a different flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Kalamata Olives?
Don’t worry! You can substitute Kalamata olives with green olives or black olives if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure they are pitted, and slice them if they are large. Adjust the amount to your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove. For best results, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the chicken moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or artichokes for added flavor and nutrition. Just remember that softer veggies like spinach will cook down significantly, so add them halfway through the cooking time if you want them to maintain some texture!
