Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that feels both effortless and vibrant, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken truly delivers. With just a handful of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, this dish becomes a celebration of flavors — lemony, garlicky, and herb-packed, all made irresistibly tender in your slow cooker. Whether you pile it onto fluffy rice, stuff it into pitas, or serve it over a crisp salad, this meal is bound to become your new weeknight favorite. The best part? It’s so easy, you can practically set it and forget it, with the aroma of Greek herbs filling your home before you know it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, but don’t be deceived by their simplicity. Every single item brings something unique to the table, from depth and juiciness to that signature Greek zest that makes this dish positively crave-worthy.

• Chicken (2 lbs boneless skinless breasts or thighs): The tender, juicy foundation of our Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, thighs offer extra richness while breasts keep things light.
• Onion (1, thinly sliced): Slices melt down with the chicken, adding sweetness and subtle texture throughout the dish.
• Chicken broth (¼ cup): Infuses moisture while melding all the Mediterranean flavors together in the slow cooker.
• Lemon (1, juiced – about 3 tablespoons): Fresh lemon juice gives essential brightness and a tangy, Greek-inspired punch.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness, helps flavors unite, and keeps the chicken moist.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Brings deep, savory aroma and classic Greek flavor to the marinade.
• Dried oregano (1 ½ teaspoons): A staple Greek herb that infuses the dish with unmistakable Mediterranean character.
• Dried thyme (1 ½ teaspoons): Complements oregano with an earthy, aromatic warmth.
• Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle, peppery kick without overpowering the other flavors.

How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need for the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken. Thinly slice your onion and mince the garlic. Having these ready makes the rest of the process as smooth as possible.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Onion

Place the chicken breasts or thighs right into the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the thinly sliced onion overtop, making sure the onion will cook down and infuse the meat with sweetness.

Step 3: Mix the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This combination brings out all those iconic Greek flavors with minimal fuss.

Step 4: Pour and Coat

Pour the marinade you just whisked together evenly over the chicken and onions. Try to cover the chicken as much as possible so every bite will soak up that herby, citrusy goodness.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Your kitchen will soon smell amazing as the flavors mingle and the chicken becomes beautifully tender. It’s ready when the chicken shreds easily and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C.

Step 6: Shred and Soak

Once cooked, grab two forks and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to let the chicken soak up every last drop of those fragrant juices. This step ensures flavor in every bite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Garnishes

Top your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a handful of crumbled feta cheese, or a few olives for a classic Greek touch. A wedge of fresh lemon on the side adds a zesty finish!

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or even a simple pasta. For a lighter option, serve it atop a crisp Greek salad bursting with tomatoes, cucumbers, and Kalamata olives. Roasted potatoes, garlicky green beans, or orzo are also excellent choices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken as a warm pita wrap with tzatziki and veggies, or spoon it over a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic as a protein topping for meal-prep salads or stuffed into bell peppers for something a little different.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making the leftovers even tastier for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or gently heat in a saucepan on the stove. Shredded chicken reheats quickly and soaks up any extra juices you might add.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will give you even richer flavor and remain super tender. Just plan to remove the bones and shred the chicken before serving for easy eating.

How can I make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken spicy?

For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced fresh chilies to the marinade. Adjust the level according to your spice preference to keep it family-friendly or give it a bold edge.

Is it okay to prep everything the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the evening before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the slow cooker base and begin cooking!

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

Shredding with two forks directly in the slow cooker works great because the chicken is so tender. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for faster shredding if making a large batch.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Double the ingredients and make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate. You may need to add a little more cooking time if your slow cooker is very full, but it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a group.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring a little Mediterranean magic to your dinner table, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken makes it almost effortless. It’s fresh, versatile, and unfailingly delicious—give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your household!

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