– **Title**: Crockpot Greek Chicken
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Feta cheese, crumbled (for serving)
– **Instructions**:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and garlic. Mix well and spread the mixture over the chicken.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it into the sauce.
6. Serve the Greek chicken on a platter or individual plates, garnished with chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Enjoy with rice or pita bread if desired.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs offer juicy flavor, but you can use skinless for a leaner option. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, just adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: A staple for Greek dishes, olive oil adds richness. If you run out, avocado oil or vegetable oil can make a good substitute, although the flavor will change a bit.
Dried Oregano: This herb is essential for that classic Greek taste. If you don’t have it, try a mix of dried basil and thyme as a substitute.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this dish a creamy, tangy kick. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Olives: Kalamata olives add boldness, while green olives offer a slight bitterness. You can mix up the types of olives based on your taste or omit them for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Marinating the Chicken?
Marinating is key to flavor! Here’s how to make sure your chicken is packed with taste:
- Combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mixing first helps the spices dissolve and distribute better.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken. Don’t skimp on this part; the more you coat it, the more delicious it becomes.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have time. If you can, marinate it overnight for even better results.
Another tip is to let your chicken sit out for a few minutes before cooking. This can help it cook more evenly!
How to Make Crockpot Greek Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Greek Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a flavorful meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by mixing the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your tasty marinade to coat the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. This adds a lot of flavor! Once coated, place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, layer the sliced lemon, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and green olives on top of the chicken in the crockpot. These add a lovely touch of brightness and flavor to the dish!
4. Pour the Broth:
Now, gently pour the chicken broth over everything in the crockpot. This helps keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
5. Cook in the Crockpot:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be tender and fully cooked when finished.
6. Add the Feta:
Once the cooking time is up, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the chicken. Let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese warms up a bit and melts into the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your flavorful Greek chicken over cooked rice or with your favorite side dishes. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley! Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but they may cook a bit faster, so reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Make sure to check for doneness, as chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese, try crumbled goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. If you want to freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 3 months for the best quality.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichokes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking, and add them at the same time as the other ingredients to cook thoroughly.
