Introduction

Remember those nights when the clock is ticking, everyone’s hungry, and the thought of cooking feels like a marathon? Yeah, I’ve been there too! This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl, a little bit of sunshine on a plate, and honestly, it’s so ridiculously easy, you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a flavorful, comforting meal ready to go. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar without even breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast: Seriously, the “prep” time is minimal. You’re basically just tossing ingredients into the slow cooker.
Easy: We’re talking “dump and go” easy. No fancy techniques, just pure, unadulterated simplicity.
Giftable: Imagine making a big batch and sharing portions with friends or neighbors who could use a home-cooked meal. It’s a thoughtful gesture that’s always appreciated!
Crowd-pleasing: The flavors are so beautifully balanced, from the savory chicken to the bright Mediterranean notes. It’s a winner for picky eaters and seasoned foodies alike.

Ingredients

Let’s gather up our goodies! You probably have most of these in your pantry already.

2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of our show! Feel free to use thighs if you prefer, they’ll just get even more tender.
2 (14-oz.) cans Artichoke hearts: These little beauties add a lovely, slightly tangy flavor and a tender texture. Just drain them!
1 medium Onion: Any kind will do – yellow, white, or even red if you like. A little chop is all they need.
1 (28-oz.) can Whole tomatoes: Don’t worry about breaking them up, the slow cooker will do the work! Their juices create a delicious sauce.
1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth: This adds moisture and helps all those yummy flavors meld together.
1/2 cup Pitted, chopped Kalamata olives: For that authentic Mediterranean zing! Their briny flavor is just perfect here.
1/4 cup White wine vinegar: Just a touch to brighten things up and balance the richness.
2 tsp Dried basil: A classic herb that plays so well with tomatoes.
2 tsp Dried thyme: Another kitchen staple that adds a wonderful earthy note.
1 heaping tbsp Curry powder: This is our secret weapon for a hint of warmth and complexity. Don’t be shy with it!
1 tsp Kosher salt: To enhance all those delicious flavors.
1 tsp Black pepper: Freshly ground is always best if you have it!
1/4 cup Fresh parsley or cilantro: For a pop of color and freshness right at the end. I love using parsley here, but cilantro is a delicious alternative if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make It

Get ready for the easiest dinner you’ve made all week. This is more of a “how to assemble” than a “how to cook” situation!

Chicken First: Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of your slow cooker.
Add the Veggies: Next, scatter in the drained artichoke hearts, your chopped onion, and the whole can of tomatoes (juices and all!).
Pour in the Liquids: Now, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and that little bit of white wine vinegar.
Season Everything Up: It’s time for the flavor boosters! Stir in your chopped Kalamata olives, dried basil, dried thyme, that heaping tablespoon of curry powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Give it a gentle stir to distribute everything evenly.
Let the Magic Happen: Cover your slow cooker with the lid, set it to low, and let it cook for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and incredibly tender. Seriously, it will practically fall apart!
Finishing Touch: Just before you’re ready to serve, stir in that fresh parsley or cilantro. It adds such a beautiful brightness and makes the dish look extra special.

Substitutions & Additions

This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also super adaptable! Here are a few ideas to make it your own.

Chicken Thighs: If you’re a fan of darker meat, chicken thighs are a wonderful substitute. They’ll get even more tender and juicy in the slow cooker.
Vegetables: Feel free to add in other veggies! Bell peppers (any color!), zucchini, or even a can of drained chickpeas would be delicious additions.
Spice Level: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with your other seasonings.
Creaminess: For a richer sauce, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream at the very end.
Lemon Zest: A little zest from a lemon added with the herbs can really make the flavors pop.

Tips for Success

Even with a recipe this easy, a few little tips can make it even better!

Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure your slow cooker isn’t packed too tightly. This allows the heat to circulate evenly.
Adjust Cooking Time: Slow cookers can vary in temperature. If your chicken seems like it needs a little longer, just give it an extra 30 minutes to an hour. The key is tender chicken!
Prep Ahead: You can chop your onion and measure out your dried herbs the night before to make assembly even faster in the morning.
Drain the Artichokes Well: Make sure to drain those artichoke hearts thoroughly to avoid adding too much extra liquid to your dish.

How to Store It

Leftovers are the best! This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken stores beautifully.

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for about 3-4 days. You can easily reheat this in the microwave or gently on the stovetop.

FAQs

Got a few lingering questions? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs will become incredibly tender and flavorful in the slow cooker. Just cook until tender, which might take a similar amount of time.
What’s the best way to serve this chicken? It’s so versatile! Serve it over rice, quinoa, couscous, or with some crusty bread for soaking up that amazing sauce. It’s also delicious alongside a simple green salad.
Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, you can! Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

Dump and Go Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

This slow cooker Mediterranean chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for a flavorful and comforting weeknight meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Servings 6

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Ingredients

Main ingredients

2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Feel free to use thighs if you prefer.
2 (14-oz.) cans Artichoke hearts Drain them.
1 medium Onion Any kind will do – yellow, white, or even red. Chop finely.
1 (28-oz.) can Whole tomatoes Don't worry about breaking them up; their juices create a delicious sauce.
1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
0.5 cup Pitted, chopped Kalamata olives
0.25 cup White wine vinegar
2 tsp Dried basil
2 tsp Dried thyme
1 heaping tbsp Curry powder This is our secret weapon for a hint of warmth and complexity.
1 tsp Kosher salt To enhance all those delicious flavors.
1 tsp Black pepper Freshly ground is always best if you have it!
0.25 cup Fresh parsley or cilantro For a pop of color and freshness right at the end.

Instructions

Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of your slow cooker.
2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Next, scatter in the drained artichoke hearts, your chopped onion, and the whole can of tomatoes (juices and all!).
2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Now, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and that little bit of white wine vinegar.
2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
It's time for the flavor boosters! Stir in your chopped Kalamata olives, dried basil, dried thyme, that heaping tablespoon of curry powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Give it a gentle stir to distribute everything evenly.
2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cover your slow cooker with the lid, set it to low, and let it cook for 4-6 hours. You'll know it's ready when the chicken is cooked through and incredibly tender. Seriously, it will practically fall apart!
Just before you're ready to serve, stir in that fresh parsley or cilantro. It adds such a beautiful brightness and makes the dish look extra special.
2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Notes

This recipe is fantastic as is, but it's also super adaptable! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or chickpeas. For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes. For a richer sauce, stir in Greek yogurt or heavy cream at the end. Lemon zest can also enhance the flavors. Ensure your slow cooker isn't overcrowded for even heat circulation. Adjust cooking time as slow cookers can vary. Prep ahead by chopping the onion and measuring dried herbs the night before. Drain artichoke hearts thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.