This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Stew is a vibrant, comforting dish filled with tender chicken, tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs. Slowly simmered for hours, the ingredients meld into a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for spooning over rice, couscous, or crusty bread. It’s an easy, satisfying meal for any night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Stew, but here are some of the best:
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a stress-free meal.
- Big, Bold Mediterranean Flavors: Olives, garlic, oregano, and tomatoes create an irresistible combination.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
- Customizable: Easily adjust to your taste with different proteins or vegetables.
- Pairs Well with Many Sides: Serve with rice, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- Great for Family Dinners or Guests: A crowd-pleaser that feels special without much effort.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Brown the Chicken for Extra Flavor: While not necessary, searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its taste.
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a deep, smoky richness to the stew.
- Don’t Skip the Olives: They provide a briny, salty depth that balances the dish.
- For a Thicker Stew: Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.
- Add Fresh Herbs at the End: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley brightens up the finished dish.
- Control the Salt: Since olives and broth contain sodium, adjust seasoning after cooking.
- Use Bone-In Chicken for More Depth: It adds extra richness to the broth.
Yield: 6 servings
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Stew
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Stew is a vibrant, comforting dish filled with tender chicken, tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours
Additional Time
10 minutes
Total Time
6 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 cup canned chickpeas (optional for extra heartiness)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for finishing)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, oregano, thyme, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Add Final Touches: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the zucchini and chickpeas (if using). Let them soften while the stew thickens.
- Finish with Freshness: Once done, stir in the balsamic vinegar and lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with rice, quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread.
Notes
- If the stew is too thin, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 310Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 139mgSodium 623mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 3gSugar 9gProtein 30g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredient Notes
Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best for slow cooking, as they stay tender and juicy.
- Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to be drier. If using them, reduce the cook time slightly.
- Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs will add more flavor, but remove the bones before serving.
Tomatoes:
- Canned crushed tomatoes create a rich base. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Diced tomatoes provide a chunkier texture if you prefer more bite.
Olives:
- Kalamata olives are traditional and bring a lovely briny contrast.
- If you’re not a fan of olives, capers can provide a similar salty tang.
Vegetables:
- Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Red, yellow, or orange work best.
- Carrots and zucchini blend beautifully with Mediterranean flavors and add extra nutrients.
- Spinach or kale can be stirred in at the end for a nutritional boost.
Spices & Herbs:
- Oregano, thyme, and rosemary are classic Mediterranean choices that add depth.
- Paprika gives a warm, smoky undertone.
- Red pepper flakes provide heat—adjust to taste.
Broth:
- Chicken broth is the best choice for a rich, cohesive flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and swap chicken for chickpeas.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based version.
- Use Different Proteins: Try turkey, lamb, or even shrimp for a different twist.
- Go Low-Carb: Skip potatoes and serve over cauliflower rice instead.
- Add More Heat: Stir in harissa paste or extra chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make It Creamy: A splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add richness.
- Try a Moroccan Twist: Add cinnamon, cumin, and dried apricots for a subtly sweet contrast.
- Make it Lighter: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs and reduce the olive oil slightly.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled stew in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
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