If you are looking for a flavorful, fuss-free meal that will become your new go-to dinner, this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken thighs with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs, this dish brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing each bite with rich savory goodness that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe guarantees a beautiful meal that’s bursting with color and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a black slow cooker, there are two layers visible. The bottom layer is made of small pieces of white chopped onions that look moist and slightly shiny. The top layer consists of seven raw chicken thighs placed close to each other, with a pale pink color. Each thigh is sprinkled evenly with a red powdery spice, giving a bright reddish contrast, and a green dried herb that is spread across all the chicken. The inside of the slow cooker has a smooth, dark surface. The scene is set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredient list for this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is wonderfully simple yet thoughtfully chosen. Each item adds a layer of flavor, texture, or a pop of color that makes the dish truly shine. From aromatic herbs to luscious olives, every component plays a key role in making this meal unforgettable.

Avocado oil: A heart-healthy oil that’s perfect for sautéing and adds a mild, buttery flavor.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and a soft texture once sautéed.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for a punch of savory aroma and depth.
Dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc): Brings brightness and acidity, elevating the overall dish.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for slow cooking without drying out.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
Dried oregano: Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean herbal notes.
Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
Artichoke hearts: Tender, slightly tangy bites that add fantastic texture.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Jammy and intense, lending sweet and tart undertones.
Kalamata olives: Briny and rich, these olives are a Mediterranean staple.
Capers: Small bursts of salty, piquant flavor to brighten the dish further.

How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chopped yellow onion and cook it until it begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that will deepen the overall profile of your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Once your aromatics are ready, transfer them to the bottom of the slow cooker along with the dry white wine. Season your chicken thighs generously on both sides with paprika, sea salt, and black pepper before placing them in two layers over the aromatics. Don’t worry if they overlap; the slow cooker will work its magic evenly.

Step 3: Add the Mediterranean Goodies

Pour in the drained artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and capers over the chicken. These flavorful ingredients soak into the chicken as it cooks, making every bite beautifully layered with Mediterranean flair.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Secure the crock pot lid and cook everything on low heat for 7 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become fall-apart tender while melding the bright, salty, and aromatic flavors throughout the dish. Before serving, check the internal temperature — it should reach 180 degrees to ensure the thighs are perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Give the contents of the slow cooker a hearty stir to combine all the delicious juices and scattered ingredients. Serve your Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe over a bed of steamed brown rice or your favorite pasta noodles. If you adore cheese, sprinkle on some freshly grated Parmesan to add a creamy finish that complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

A blue plate holds a single piece of cooked chicken with golden-brown skin and some herbs on top, placed in the center. Underneath the chicken is a layer of cooked white rice mixed with sliced black olives, pieces of pale yellow artichoke hearts, and small red sun-dried tomato chunks. The rice looks soft and mixed well with the toppings spread evenly around the chicken. A silver fork is resting on the right side of the plate. The plate is on a white marbled surface with some green parsley blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really elevate this dish. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a mild herbaceous note. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens every bite, cutting through the richness while enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants to keep the meal light but satisfying. A crisp, classic Italian salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette also complements the slow-cooked chicken perfectly without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, arrange the chicken and Mediterranean medley on a large, rustic serving platter surrounded by lemon wedges and fresh herbs. You can also turn this recipe into a filling for warm pita pockets or wraps topped with a dollop of creamy tzatziki for a casual lunch or picnic option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors will only deepen as they rest, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and retain moisture. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep the chicken juicy during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to dry out during slow cooking. Chicken thighs are preferable for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender.

What if I don’t have white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with low-sodium chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Is it necessary to sauté the onions and garlic first?

Sautéing helps develop deeper flavors and mellows the raw sharpness of onions and garlic. However, you can skip this step if you’re short on time, but expect a milder taste.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for the aromatics, then cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, followed by a natural release for best results.

How spicy is this dish?

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is mildly spiced, with warmth from paprika but no heat from chili. You can add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about coming home to a meal that has been slowly simmering all day, filling your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and promising comfort in every bite. This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is easy to prepare, bursting with complex, wholesome flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that feels like a warm Mediterranean embrace.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe