This Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and easy slow cooker meal packed with tender chicken, tomatoes, olives, and artichokes, all simmered in a fragrant broth infused with Mediterranean spices. It’s a hands-off, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set It & Forget It: Just add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Olives, artichokes, and herbs create a delicious, savory dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, couscous, or even pasta.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers and easy to freeze.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 heaping tablespoon curry powder
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 oz) can whole tomatoes, mostly drained and chopped
- 2 (14 oz) cans quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Season: Combine curry powder, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half over the chicken.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in tomatoes, artichoke hearts, broth, onion, olives, and white wine vinegar. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred or chop it. Stir it back into the slow cooker to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve over couscous, brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a ziplock bag or container for up to 4-5 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness to the dish.
What can I serve this with?
Serve it over couscous, rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but canned tomatoes break down better during cooking. Use 3-4 fresh tomatoes, chopped.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you pair it with gluten-free grains.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
How do I make it more creamy?
Add a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt after cooking.
Can I skip the olives?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of olives, leave them out or replace them with capers for a similar briny flavor.
What other meats can I use?
You can use turkey breast or even shrimp (added in the last 30 minutes of cooking).
Can I add cheese?
Yes! Crumbled feta cheese on top adds a delicious Mediterranean touch.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming too watery?
Drain the tomatoes well and use less broth if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken is an effortless, flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. With rich, Mediterranean flavors and tender, juicy chicken, it’s a satisfying, healthy meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean from the comfort of your home!
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Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful and easy slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken, tomatoes, olives, and artichokes simmered in a fragrant broth infused with Mediterranean spices. Perfect for meal prep, this healthy dish pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 heaping tablespoon curry powder
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28 oz) can whole tomatoes, mostly drained and chopped
- 2 (14 oz) cans quartered artichoke hearts, drained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
-
Season the Chicken:
- Mix curry powder, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half over the chicken.
-
Add Ingredients:
- Pour in chopped tomatoes, artichoke hearts, chicken broth, onion, olives, and white wine vinegar.
- Sprinkle with the remaining seasoning.
-
Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
-
Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred or chop it. Stir it back into the slow cooker to absorb the flavors.
-
Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Serve over couscous, brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta.
Notes
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Extra Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in coconut milk or Greek yogurt after cooking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for 4-5 days or freeze for up to 5 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
