Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken – Flavorful Mediterranean Dinner

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is the kind of effortless Mediterranean dinner that delivers bold flavor with almost no hands-on time. This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken combines tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and basil, slowly cooking until juicy and easy to shred. Briny Kalamata olives add classic Greek depth, while crumbled feta and fresh lemon wedges brighten every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, meal prep lunches, or casual gatherings, this easy slow cooker chicken recipe brings vibrant Greek flavors straight to your table. The texture is melt-in-your-mouth tender, the aroma is citrusy and herbaceous, and the savory juices soak beautifully into rice, quinoa, or warm pita bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Introduction

There’s something deeply comforting about a slow cooker meal that practically makes itself. Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is one of those recipes that feels both fresh and hearty at the same time. It captures the sunny, herb-forward flavors of Greek cuisine while delivering the cozy satisfaction of tender shredded chicken.

This recipe is inspired by classic Mediterranean ingredients—olive oil, lemon, oregano, garlic, and olives—combined in a way that allows them to slowly infuse the chicken as it cooks. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that falls apart effortlessly with a fork.

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken stands out because it strikes a beautiful balance. It’s simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for entertaining, and versatile enough for meal prep. Whether served over rice, tucked into pita bread, or spooned onto quinoa, it transforms everyday ingredients into something vibrant and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep time with maximum flavor payoff
• Tender, juicy shredded chicken infused with Mediterranean herbs
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Family-friendly and easy to customize
• Beginner-friendly slow cooker method
• Naturally gluten-free (depending on serving choice)

Ingredients Breakdown (Serves 6)

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

For Serving

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Ingredient Notes

Chicken Thighs (2 lbs) – Boneless, skinless thighs stay moist and tender during long cooking.

Olive Oil (1/4 cup) – Helps carry the herb flavors and keeps the chicken succulent.

Lemon Juice (1/4 cup) – Brightens and tenderizes the chicken while adding authentic Greek flavor.

Garlic (2 cloves) – Adds aromatic depth.

Dried Oregano (1 tbsp) – Essential Mediterranean herb with bold, earthy flavor.

Dried Basil (1 tsp) – Soft herbal sweetness that complements oregano.

Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup) – Provide briny contrast and traditional Greek character.

Feta Cheese (1/4 cup) – Salty, creamy topping that enhances flavor.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two forks for shredding
• Serving spoon

Optional:

• Citrus juicer
• Tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Place 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker in an even layer.

2. Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. The mixture should be well combined and aromatic.

3. Coat the Chicken

Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly.

4. Add Olives

Sprinkle 1/2 cup Kalamata olives over the chicken in the slow cooker.

5. Cook

Cover and cook:

• On low for 6–8 hours
  OR
• On high for 3–4 hours

The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.

6. Shred

Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it into the flavorful cooking juices.

7. Serve

Serve the shredded chicken over rice, quinoa, or in pita bread. Top with 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice from the wedges.

Tips & Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or chickpeas while keeping seasonings identical.

Gluten-Free Option: Serve over rice or quinoa instead of pita.

Dairy-Free Option: Omit feta cheese.

Spice Adjustment: Add extra black pepper for more bite.

Pantry Substitutions: If Kalamata olives aren’t available, substitute with similar briny olives.

Seasonal Variation: Add fresh herbs as garnish during spring and summer months.

Flavor Profile

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is bright, savory, and herbaceous. Lemon juice adds vibrant acidity, while olive oil provides richness. Oregano and basil create earthy warmth, balanced by the briny punch of Kalamata olives. The shredded texture allows every bite to soak up the flavorful juices, creating a juicy and satisfying mouthfeel.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving – Estimated)

Calories: 420
Protein: 34 g
Carbs: 3 g
Fat: 30 g
Fiber: 1 g

Dietary Notes:

• Gluten-free (without pita)
• Nut-free
• Contains dairy (if feta added)

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare marinade the night before.
• Store cooked chicken in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in microwave or stovetop.
• Add splash of cooking juices when reheating to maintain moisture.

Flavors deepen beautifully after resting overnight.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead?
The recipe specifies chicken thighs for optimal tenderness.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze shredded chicken in airtight container up to 3 months.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?
No, this recipe is designed for direct slow cooking.

Can I cook longer than 8 hours on low?
Cook within the recommended range for best texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your slow cooker can accommodate the volume safely.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 minutes	360 minutes	370 minutes	6 servings

Serving Suggestions

Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken family-style in a large serving bowl with feta sprinkled on top. Add lemon wedges on the side for brightness. For gatherings, create a build-your-own bowl station with rice, quinoa, or pita.

Recipe Variations

1. Greek Chicken Bowl – Serve over quinoa with olives and feta.
2. Pita Wrap – Stuff into warm pita bread.
3. Lemon Herb Rice Plate – Spoon over fluffy rice.
4. Mediterranean Salad Topper – Add to fresh greens with olives and feta.

Ingredient Spotlight: Kalamata Olives

Choose plump, glossy olives with deep purple color. Store refrigerated once opened. Their briny richness is essential to authentic Greek flavor and balances the citrusy marinade in Slow Cooker Greek Chicken.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Arrange chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
• Avoid lifting lid frequently during cooking.
• Shred while warm for easiest texture.
• Stir shredded chicken thoroughly into juices for maximum flavor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in airtight container.
Freezer: Up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently until heated through.
Do not freeze with feta garnish.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	34 g
Carbs	3 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	1 g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free without pita, nut-free, dairy optional.

Expanded Conclusion

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is proof that a handful of Mediterranean ingredients can create something truly special. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you need a dependable, satisfying meal.

Save it for busy weeknights, share it with family, and make it part of your regular rotation. Once you taste the tender, lemony, herb-infused chicken, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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