Craving a delicious, fuss-free meal? These Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken Thighs are a fantastic option for a healthy and flavorful dinner you can enjoy with minimal effort. This recipe brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors right to your table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: You can use chicken breasts, but cooking time may vary.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add extra flavor.
- Kalamata Olives: Pitted green olives work too.
- Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred (not marinated) are best.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese is a good alternative.
- Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano can be used, just triple the amount.
- Lemon: Essential for brightness; use bottled lemon juice if fresh isn’t available.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 3-4 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
- Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools needed: 6-quart or larger crock pot
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. This helps the flavors absorb well.
2. Brown the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to your Healthy Crock Pot Dinner.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Place the seared chicken thighs into your crock pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and minced garlic. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook Until Tender
Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easily shreddable with a fork.
5. Finish and Serve
Once cooked, stir in the fresh lemon juice and crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve these delicious Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken Thighs over rice, quinoa, or with a fresh salad.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Include sliced bell peppers or zucchini for more vegetables.
- Stir in a tablespoon of sun-dried tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. These Healthy Crock Pot Dinners are perfect for meal prepping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw chicken in a crock pot?
Yes, you can place raw chicken directly into your crock pot. Browning it first is optional but enhances the flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken thighs before cooking in the crock pot to ensure even cooking and food safety.
What should I serve with this dish?
These Mediterranean chicken thighs are excellent with couscous, brown rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative.
Why are my chicken thighs tough?
Tough chicken usually means it has been overcooked or cooked at too high a temperature for too long. Ensure you follow the recommended cooking times for tender results.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic recipe for meal prepping a healthy crock pot dinner. Divide into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.