Name: Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 h 30 min
Total time: 5 h 40 min
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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·4 from 75 reviews

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm embrace from the Mediterranean sun, the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe is your go-to. Tender, juicy chicken infused with bright lemon, fragrant herbs, and garlic simmers gently all day, building a rich depth of flavor that is both comforting and fresh. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for weekend dinners, making it a staple I love sharing with friends and family alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines with straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor. Each plays a vital role—from the juicy lemon juice lifting the dish to the oregano and thyme bringing authentic Greek flair, and the chicken broth ensuring every bite stays moist and savory.

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs: Use thighs for extra tenderness and moisture; breasts work too if you prefer leaner meat.
1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when slow-cooked.
¼ cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken juicy and creates a flavorful sauce.
1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons): Brings bright citrus notes that balance the herbs perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses an aromatic punch that Greek dishes are known for.
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano: This classic Greek herb lends earthy, slightly minty flavor.
1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme: Adds warm, peppery undertones that complement the oregano.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
½ teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle, balanced spice.

How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Onion

Begin by placing your boneless skinless chicken pieces in the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the thinly sliced onion evenly over the chicken. The onions will slowly caramelize, adding a subtle sweetness that makes the dish irresistible.

Step 2: Whisk the Flavorful Sauce

In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well mixed and aromatic. This sauce is the heart of the Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe, packing it full of vibrant, classic Mediterranean flavors.

Step 3: Pour and Cook

Pour the sauce gently and evenly over the chicken and onions, making sure every piece gets coated. Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This slow, steady cooking allows the chicken to tenderize beautifully and absorb every bit of that herby, lemony goodness.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

Once your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is falling-apart tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. This step lets the meat soak even more in the flavorful juices before serving, ensuring every bite is moist and savory.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill adds a pop of green and fresh herbal brightness that complements the earthy oregano and thyme perfectly. Crumbled feta cheese scattered on top brings a salty, creamy contrast that makes the dish sing.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or a simple lemon-infused quinoa to soak up those tangy juices. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or Greek-style potatoes tossed with olive oil and herbs make an easy and colorful addition.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the shredded chicken stuffed inside warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and crunchy cucumber slices for a fresh Greek-inspired wrap. Or pile it over a crisp Greek salad for a light yet satisfying meal that delivers a burst of texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken along with the cooking juices in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days to enjoy flavorful, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week without any loss of moisture or taste.

Freezing

The shredded chicken freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will maintain optimal flavor and texture for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the juices. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep it moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used and often yield even juicier results due to the bones. Just be mindful that cooking time may increase slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked through.

Is it necessary to shred the chicken?

Shredding the chicken is optional but recommended because it allows the meat to soak up the flavorful cooking juices better. You can also serve the chicken whole or sliced if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid any additives containing gluten. It’s a great dish for those watching their gluten intake.

How tangy will the lemon flavor be?

The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh tang that balances the herbs perfectly without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a milder citrus taste, you can reduce the amount slightly or add lemon zest for a subtler aroma.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

You can, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken without overcrowding. Cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure even cooking throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe quickly became one of my all-time favorites because it takes very little hands-on time but delivers on comfort, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the fresh, vibrant tastes of Greece delivered effortlessly right to your table.