ADVERTISEMENT
### **How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken:**
#### **1. Prep the Chicken**
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sets the stage for the Mediterranean flavors to shine through.
#### **2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker**
In the bottom of the slow cooker, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Top with the sliced onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Add the drained diced tomatoes, kalamata olives, and minced garlic on top of the chicken and vegetables. These ingredients are key to achieving that Mediterranean flavor profile—think tangy olives, sweet tomatoes, and savory garlic.
#### **3. Season the Dish**
Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables and chicken. Drizzle the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice over everything for extra flavor. The lemon juice brightens up the dish, while the red wine vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the olives and olive oil.
#### **4. Let the Slow Cooker Do the Work**
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for **6-7 hours** or on high for **3-4 hours**. The chicken will cook until tender and juicy, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the vegetables and seasonings. The longer it cooks, the more the ingredients meld together, creating a deeply flavorful and aromatic dish.
#### **5. Serve and Garnish**
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and slice it, if desired. Spoon the vegetables and sauce over the chicken for a burst of Mediterranean goodness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using) for a finishing touch.
### **Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken:**
– **Effortless**: This recipe requires minimal prep, and the slow cooker takes care of the rest. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it dish that’s perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.
– **Vibrant and Flavorful**: With fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, olives, and tangy lemon, every bite is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The chicken comes out incredibly tender as it cooks slowly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
– **Healthy and Wholesome**: Mediterranean cuisine is known for its focus on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, making this dish both delicious and nourishing. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and olives creates a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
– **Customizable**: While this recipe calls for specific vegetables like zucchini and bell pepper, you can easily swap them for other Mediterranean favorites like eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or even artichokes. Add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to suit your taste.
– **Great for Meal Prep**: This recipe is perfect for preparing meals ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily, making it an ideal choice for lunchboxes or preparing dinner for the week.
### **Serving Suggestions:**
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
– **Rice or Quinoa**: Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also try couscous for a more traditional Mediterranean touch.
– **Pita Bread**: Warm, soft pita bread is great for scooping up the vegetables and sauce, or you can stuff it with the chicken and veggies to create a quick wrap.
– **Greek Salad**: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese would complement the dish perfectly for a light and healthy meal.
– **Roasted Potatoes**: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with Mediterranean herbs make for a satisfying side that pairs well with the tender chicken and vegetables.
### **Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken:**
– **Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor**: If you don’t mind a little extra prep, using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can add more flavor to the dish as the bones help retain moisture and enhance the taste.
– **Add Extra Veggies**: Feel free to add more vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or eggplant to bulk up the dish and add even more Mediterranean flavor.
– **Adjust the Seasonings**: Mediterranean flavors vary by region, so don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs and spices. If you like a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes. If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, add extra lemon zest or lemon juice.
– **Top with Fresh Herbs**: Adding freshly chopped parsley, mint, or basil at the end will give the dish an extra burst of freshness.
### **Conclusion: A Mediterranean Feast in Your Slow Cooker**
**Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken** is a wonderfully flavorful dish that requires minimal effort but delivers a mouthwatering meal. With juicy chicken, tender vegetables, olives, and a Mediterranean-inspired seasoning blend, it’s a dish that brings the sunny, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for the family, preparing a meal for guests, or meal prepping for the week, this slow cooker recipe will become a favorite in your rotation.
Try it out today and let your slow cooker do the work for you!
ADVERTISEMENT
