Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s both bursting with Mediterranean flavors and incredibly easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is your new best friend. Tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and garlic makes a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and comfort in every bite. Once you try this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each one plays a vital role—bringing out the rich aroma, adding juicy texture, or boosting that signature tangy flavor making the dish unforgettable.

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for lean protein, both work beautifully slow-cooked.
• 1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce as it slowly cooks.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with savory goodness.
• 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons): Provides a bright, fresh citrus punch characteristic of Greek cuisine.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: The classic Mediterranean fat that enhances flavor and creates a silky sauce.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Packs in the aromatic intensity that makes this dish so inviting.
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano: A must-have herb that transports the dish straight to the Greek islands.
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness that balances the lemon and garlic.
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Brings all the flavors together while seasoning the chicken perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick without overpowering the herbs and lemon.

How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Onions

Start by placing your chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer those thinly sliced onions on top—this layering helps infuse the chicken with sweetness and moisture as it cooks slowly throughout the day.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, fragrant mixture that will soak into the chicken and onions.

Step 3: Pour Over and Cook

Pour your lemony, herby mixture evenly over the chicken and onions, making sure every bit gets coated. Seal the slow cooker with its lid and let it do its magic on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Patience is key here—the slow, gentle cooking transforms the chicken into a meltingly tender delight.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This step allows the meat to soak up even more of that vibrant sauce, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Now your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or dill over the shredded chicken for a burst of color and freshness. For an extra authentic touch, add crumbled feta cheese or a handful of kalamata olives on top—these garnishes elevate the dish with classic Greek flair.

Side Dishes

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken shines when paired with simple sides like fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even warm pita bread to soak up all those luscious juices. A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions always works beautifully alongside, balancing the rich chicken with fresh, cooling bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve this chicken over a bed of orzo pasta tossed with lemon zest and herbs, or pile it into soft pita pockets with tzatziki sauce and crunchy veggies for a vibrant, handheld meal. You can also use it as a protein-packed topping for a grain bowl with roasted vegetables and hummus. The possibilities with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken are endless and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep it fresh and juicy for your next meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Portion the shredded chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep or quick dinners when you need a fast, flavorful option.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and stays moist. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil during reheating helps keep those tender juices flowing.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for Slow Cooker Greek Chicken?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add extra flavor to the dish as it cooks, but adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Is it necessary to shred the chicken after cooking?

Shredding the chicken is recommended because it allows the meat to soak up more of the delicious juices, making every bite flavorful and tender. However, you can also serve it as whole pieces if you prefer.

Can this recipe be made in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for the onions and then pressure cooking the chicken with the sauce for about 10 minutes. Be sure to allow natural pressure release for the best texture.

What if I don’t have dried oregano or thyme?

If you don’t have dried herbs, fresh ones can be used—just double the quantity. Alternatively, a Mediterranean herb blend with rosemary, basil, or marjoram can also work well in this recipe.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Certainly! Adding chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes in the last hour of cooking will add more color and flavor to your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken without compromising the tenderness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken. It’s a recipe that nurtures both the body and the soul with its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation. Once you give it a try, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite—simple ingredients transformed into a dish that feels like a celebration in every bite. Don’t wait to share this Greek-inspired treasure with your family and friends!

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