Description

Craving a vibrant, healthy dish that transports you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean? Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is your answer! This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken breasts with juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a light yet satisfying dinner, this dish delivers bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors with minimal effort

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4, ~1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that soaks up the Mediterranean flavors.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs for juicier meat, or tofu/portobello mushrooms for vegetarian (adjust cooking time to 4–5 hours on low for tofu).
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz, undrained):
- Why it’s important: Forms the juicy, tangy base of the sauce.
- Substitutions: Fresh diced tomatoes (2 cups), crushed tomatoes, or fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
Kalamata Olives (1 cup, pitted and halved):
- Why it’s important: Adds briny, salty richness typical of Mediterranean cuisine.
- Substitutions: Green olives, capers, or omit for a milder flavor.
Red Onion (½ cup, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth and a touch of color.
- Substitutions: Yellow onion, shallots, or ½ tsp onion powder.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 tsp garlic paste.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, Mediterranean herbaceousness.
- Substitutions: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp), dried thyme, or Italian seasoning.
Dried Basil (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the tomatoes.
- Substitutions: Fresh basil (1 tbsp, added at the end), dried parsley, or omit.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional):
- Why it’s important: Provides a subtle kick to balance the flavors.
- Substitutions: Cayenne pepper, fresh chili, or omit for no heat.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Cilantro, chives, or omit.
Cooked Couscous or Quinoa (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Absorbs the flavorful sauce and completes the meal.
- Substitutions: Rice, cauliflower rice, or orzo (if not gluten-free).

Tip: Use high-quality Kalamata olives for authentic flavor, and choose canned tomatoes with no added sugar or herbs to control the taste.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with a pinch of salt, pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, and ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
Tip: Trim any excess fat from the chicken for a cleaner dish.

Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Pour 1 can (14 oz) undrained diced tomatoes over the chicken.
Add 1 cup pitted and halved Kalamata olives, ½ cup sliced red onion, and 4 minced garlic cloves on top.
Gently stir to distribute the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is partially covered by the tomatoes.
Tip: Spread the olives and onions evenly to avoid clumping.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 4: Serve

Carefully transfer the chicken to a serving platter or plates, shredding it slightly with two forks if desired for easier eating.
Spoon the tomato-olive sauce over the chicken, ensuring each serving gets plenty of olives, onions, and juices.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve over cooked couscous or quinoa.
Tip: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it in a saucepan for 5–7 minutes to reduce, or thicken with a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp water.