Slow Cooker Greek Chicken: An Easy, Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Dinner
There’s something deeply comforting about a home-cooked meal waiting for you after a long day. I remember the first time I made slow cooker Greek chicken—the smell of garlic, lemon, and oregano filled my house long before dinner was ready. That simple recipe has since become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when I want something healthy and delicious without lifting a finger after 10 a.m.
If you’re craving a no-fuss Mediterranean-inspired dish, this slow cooker Greek chicken is for you. It brings together the bold flavors of Greek cuisine—lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs—with the ease of slow cooking. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or batch-cooking for lunches, this recipe checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Making slow cooker Greek chicken isn’t just easy—it’s practically foolproof. Here’s why it belongs on your regular rotation:
Flavorful and Fuss-Free
The blend of lemon, garlic, oregano, and olive oil creates a savory, zesty marinade that seeps deep into the chicken during the long, slow cook.
Set It and Forget It
Prep in 10 minutes, then let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. It’s perfect for working parents, busy professionals, or anyone who wants to simplify dinner.
Kid and Meal-Prep Friendly
This recipe works well in lunchboxes, wraps, or over rice. Plus, it stores beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients commonly found in Greek cooking.
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Chicken thighs | 2 to 2.5 lbs | Boneless or bone-in |
Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Extra virgin recommended |
Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Fresh is best |
Lemon juice | 1/4 cup | Freshly squeezed |
Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons | Adds that Greek authenticity |
Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust after cooking |
Red onion (optional) | 1 medium, sliced | Adds sweetness |
Kalamata olives | 1/2 cup | Optional but authentic |
Feta cheese | For serving | Crumbled |
Cherry tomatoes | Optional garnish | Adds freshness and color |
Tip: Marinate your chicken overnight for even deeper flavor.

How to Make Greek Chicken in a Slow Cooker (Step-by-Step)
Making slow cooker Greek chicken is as simple as layering ingredients and walking away.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place sliced red onions on the bottom. Layer chicken on top. Pour the marinade over everything. Scatter in olives if using.
Step 4: Cook
- On low: 6 to 7 hours
- On high: 3 to 4 hours
The chicken should be tender and pull-apart ready.
Step 5: Serve
Top with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and cherry tomatoes if desired.

Best Chicken Cuts for Slow Cooking Greek-Style
While you can use any chicken cut, the results vary:
Bone-In Thighs
- Juicier, richer flavor
- Ideal for shredding after cooking
Boneless Skinless Breasts
- Leaner but risk of drying out
- Reduce cook time by 30 minutes on low
Chicken Drumsticks
- Budget-friendly
- Great for casual family meals
Use what you have—but boneless thighs are the best all-around choice.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
Pair your slow cooker Greek chicken with sides that complement its bright and herby flavor:
Grain-Based Sides
- Orzo tossed with lemon and parsley
- Greek lemon rice
- Couscous with feta and spinach
Veggie Pairings
- Roasted zucchini or eggplant
- Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and tomatoes
- Steamed green beans with lemon
Sauces & Extras
- Tzatziki or hummus
- Warm pita bread or naan
- Lemon wedges for squeezing
Serve buffet-style for a DIY Mediterranean dinner night.

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Variations to Try
This dish adapts easily to your preferences or dietary needs:
Low-Carb Version
Omit tomatoes and olives; serve with cauliflower rice.
Add Veggies
Toss in artichoke hearts, bell peppers, or spinach during the last hour.
Make It a Wrap
Stuff shredded chicken into pitas with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Planning? This recipe was made for it.
Refrigeration
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Meal Prep Bowls
Pair chicken with rice, veggies, and feta for ready-to-heat lunches.
Freezer Tips
Freeze portions in resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can You Freeze Greek Chicken?
Absolutely. It freezes well both before and after cooking.
To Freeze Before Cooking
Place all raw ingredients in a freezer bag. Flatten and label. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding to the slow cooker.
To Freeze After Cooking
Let cool fully. Freeze in meal-sized containers. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of broth.
Nutritional Breakdown and Dietary Info
This dish is naturally gluten-free and high in protein.
Nutrient | Per Serving (Est.) |
---|---|
Calories | 290–350 kcal |
Protein | 28g |
Carbs | 4g (without sides) |
Fat | 18g |
Slow cooker Greek chicken also works well for Whole30, paleo, and low-carb diets with minor tweaks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Greek Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Here’s what to watch for:
- Using frozen chicken without thawing — It affects cook time and food safety.
- Overcooking boneless breasts — Use thighs or check early for doneness.
- Forgetting to taste the marinade — Always adjust lemon and salt levels.
Browning the chicken beforehand is optional but adds depth.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in a slow cooker?
It’s best to thaw chicken before using it in a slow cooker to ensure it reaches a safe temperature evenly.
How long should I cook Greek chicken on high?
Cook for about 3 to 4 hours on high, or until the chicken is tender and reaches 165°F internally.
Can I add potatoes or rice to the slow cooker with the chicken?
You can add halved baby potatoes. For rice, it’s better to cook it separately to avoid mushiness.
What is the best substitute for oregano in Greek chicken?
If you don’t have oregano, try thyme or a dried Italian herb blend for a similar effect.
How do I thicken the sauce at the end?
Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook uncovered to reduce.
This slow cooker Greek chicken recipe is one of those meals that delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s fresh, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking your freezer, this dish deserves a place in your regular rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean—right from your slow cooker.
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Slow Cooker Greek Chicken: An Easy, Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Dinner
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This slow cooker Greek chicken recipe delivers bold Mediterranean flavor with minimal prep. Made with lemon, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, it’s a healthy, hands-off dinner perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
2 to 2.5 lbs chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 medium red onion, sliced (optional)
1/2 cup kalamata olives (optional)
Feta cheese, for serving
Cherry tomatoes, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
Place sliced red onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add chicken on top.
Pour the marinade over the chicken. Add olives if using.
Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Serve with crumbled feta, cherry tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight before cooking.
Chicken thighs are recommended for juicier results, but breasts can be used with shorter cook times.
Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth, but is optional.
Serve with rice, orzo, couscous, or in pita wraps with tzatziki.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keywords: slow cooker Greek chicken, Mediterranean chicken, crockpot Greek chicken, healthy slow cooker meals, Greek recipes, lemon garlic chicken, chicken meal prep
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