This Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken is a simple and tasty dish! With juicy chicken, olive oil, garlic, and zesty lemon, it’s packed full of delightful flavors!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I love serving it with rice or pita for a fun twist. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a little help in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. However, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Both work great in the slow cooker!
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might use avocado oil instead. Both have a lovely taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I recommend using fresh if you can!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. Bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh lemon really elevates the flavor!
Dried Herbs: Oregano and thyme give that classic Greek taste. You can mix it up with dried basil or Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
Kalamata Olives: They offer brininess. If not available, green olives can be a suitable alternative, but adjust for saltiness.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Tender and Flavorful in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in the crockpot makes it tender and full of flavor with minimal effort! Here’s how to get the best results:
- Start with seasoning your chicken well. Marinating with the olive oil and spices mixes the flavors beautifully.
- Layer your chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of the crockpot to cook evenly.
- Add liquids like chicken broth and lemon juice; they help keep the chicken moist.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Low and slow is ideal for juicy chicken!
Don’t forget to check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F is the safe temperature for poultry. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Feta cheese crumbles (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a wonderful meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are arranged evenly so they cook nicely.
3. Add the Marinade:
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated with all those tasty flavors!
4. Add Broth and Extras:
Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot. If you’re using them, add the Kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes on top of the chicken for extra flavor.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can touch it with a fork to check if it’s ready!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, garnish it with fresh parsley or dill and a sprinkle of feta cheese if you like. Serve it warm with rice, pita bread, or a refreshing Greek salad. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Greek Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thawing method.
What If I Don’t Have Kalamata Olives?
No worries! You can substitute with green olives or simply omit them altogether. The dish will still taste delightful without them!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make it even heartier. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.