Dinner

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486876H33M30S
Total time: PT-486876H33M30S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs; 1 onion, thinly sliced; ¼ cup chicken broth; 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano; 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

ByMariam Harutyunyan July 9, 2025July 9, 2025

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of tender, juicy chicken mingling with lemon, herbs, and a whisper of garlic. That’s exactly what Slow Cooker Greek Chicken delivers: a hands-off, flavor-packed dinner that’s as versatile as it is comforting. Whether it’s the heart of summer or a chilly evening in, this dish brings bright Mediterranean flavors to the table with very little fuss. Let me share how you can make this a weeknight staple everyone will crave!

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple but powerful: that’s the key to Slow Cooker Greek Chicken. Every ingredient shines — from zesty lemon to rich olive oil — bringing vibrancy and depth to every bite. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each part matters.

Chicken (2 lbs boneless skinless breasts or thighs): Thighs offer extra tenderness, but breasts work beautifully too, soaking up all the bold flavors.
Onion (1, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and a lovely texture that melts right into the sauce.
Chicken broth (¼ cup): Keeps the chicken moist and creates a savory base for the sauce.
Lemon (1, juiced): Brightens everything up and gives that classic Greek zing — freshly squeezed is best!
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A touch of richness that rounds out all the other flavors.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Essential for that irresistible Mediterranean aroma.
Dried oregano (1½ teaspoons): The hero herb, delivering earthiness that defines Greek cuisine.
Dried thyme (1½ teaspoons): Partners with the oregano for an extra dimension of flavor.
Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon): Makes all the other flavors pop, use a good quality sea salt if possible.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Just enough heat to balance the herbs and citrus.

How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Layer

Let’s start with the foundation! Place your boneless skinless chicken (breasts or thighs) right at the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, scatter the thinly sliced onion over the top. This layering not only ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender but also lets the onions gradually release flavor into every bite as they cook.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Taking just a moment to mix this up ensures every spoonful will taste amazing, with each ingredient playing its part in the marinade.

Step 3: Pour and Coat

Now, pour that fragrant blend evenly over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. Make sure all the chicken gets a touch of the marinade — these flavors will infuse right down to the core, guaranteeing moist, beautifully seasoned Slow Cooker Greek Chicken.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Pop the lid on and set your slow cooker to LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Since we’re relying on the slow cooker’s gentle heat, you’ll be rewarded with chicken that practically falls apart but stays incredibly juicy. Remember, your goal is an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C — that’s when you know it’s safe and perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Shred and Soak Up the Juices

Grab two forks and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. This step is especially satisfying — as you pull the chicken apart, it soaks up every last drop of those tangy, herby juices. Give it a gentle stir and serve while it’s hot!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Garnishes

Elevate your serving with a sprinkle of crumbled feta, some chopped fresh parsley, or a few lemon wedges on the side. A drizzle of extra olive oil or a dash of cracked black pepper just before serving can add even more sparkle.

Side Dishes

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a superstar alongside fluffy rice, orzo, or buttery couscous. For a lower-carb twist, pile it over a bed of crisp Greek salad or pair with roasted veggies. Warm pita bread or flatbread lets you scoop up every drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn leftovers into a Mediterranean wrap by filling a pita with chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and tzatziki. Or, lay it over a bed of quinoa and top with olives and fresh herbs for a nourishing grain bowl. You can even spread it on flatbread for a quick Greek-inspired pizza!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, pack your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken into an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days — just be sure to include plenty of the cooking juices to prevent any dryness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, label with the date, and stash in the freezer for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve all that luscious flavor.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave in a covered dish. If you find the chicken drying out a bit, stir in a splash of chicken broth or a squeeze of fresh lemon to bring it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for food safety and even cooking. If you must use frozen, allow for extra cook time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C before serving.

What’s the difference between using chicken breasts versus thighs?

Chicken thighs are fattier and tend to stay more tender and juicy after slow cooking, while breasts are leaner but work well if you prefer a lighter option. Both pick up the Greek flavors beautifully!

Do I have to shred the chicken?

Not at all! You can serve the chicken whole or sliced if you prefer. Shredding simply allows it to soak up all the delicious juices for an even more flavorful bite.

Is Slow Cooker Greek Chicken gluten free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you serve it with gluten free sides. Always double-check ingredient labels to be absolutely certain.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just make sure not to overfill your slow cooker; leave a little room for air circulation. You may need to increase the cook time slightly if your appliance is filled to the top.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a new weeknight hero, Slow Cooker Greek Chicken deserves a spot on your table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a savory escape to the Mediterranean that your family will love. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how effortlessly delicious home-cooked meals can be!

Mariam Harutyunyan

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need