Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Written by: Editor In Chief
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Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken recipe.

It’s a perfect blend of flavors that transports you straight to the Mediterranean with minimal effort. The tender chicken, combined with the sweet butternut squash and colorful bell peppers, creates a vibrant and satisfying meal.

Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you—just set it and forget it! I appreciate how it fills my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas while I go about my day.

Trust me, your family will ask for seconds!

Ingredients of Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

Making Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is a delightful experience that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. The combination of vibrant veggies, succulent chicken, and aromatic spices is like a mini-vacation for your taste buds.

Plus, the best part? You can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the heavy lifting. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just imagine walking in after a long day to the smell of this delicious dish wafting through your home. Does it get any better than that?

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fantastic recipe:

  • 1 1/2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 75 g bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, each cut into 3 pieces
  • 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/3 cup picante sauce (or salsa, if you’re feeling spicy)
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 cup couscous

Now, let’s talk about the ingredients for a minute. While these are the core components, feel free to get a little creative. For instance, if you’ve got some leftover veggies lurking in your fridge—zucchini, carrots, or spinach—chop them up and throw them in.

No one will judge you for adding extra color and nutrients. And if you’re not a fan of raisins, you could swap them for dried cranberries or even omit them altogether. Cooking should be fun and personal, so don’t be afraid to make this dish your own.

Just remember, the Mediterranean is all about fresh, vibrant flavors, so keep that in mind as you experiment. Happy cooking!

How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

slow cooker mediterranean chicken recipe

Making Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, since you don’t have to worry about crusts and baking times. Start by grabbing 1 1/2 lbs of butternut squash. Peel it, then chop it into 2-inch pieces. This squash is like the star of the show, bringing a lovely sweetness to the dish.

Next, take 75 grams of bell peppers, cut them into 1-inch pieces, and toss them in with the squash in your slow cooker. Now, for the pièce de résistance, add in 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast, cutting each breast into three pieces. Make sure everything is layered nicely in that 4 to 5-quart slow cooker. It’s like building a delicious tower of flavor.

Once you’ve got your veggies and chicken cozy in the slow cooker, it’s time to mix the magic sauce. Grab a 14 1/2 ounce can of stewed tomatoes (don’t drain it, we want that juice) and combine it with 1/3 cup of picante sauce—salsa works too, but I say go bold or go home, right?

Add in 1/4 cup of raisins for a touch of sweetness, along with 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. This blend of spices will transport you straight to the Mediterranean without needing a plane ticket. Give it a good stir and pour it over the chicken and veggies.

Cover that slow cooker and set it to low, letting it work its magic for about 7 hours. While you wait—try not to check on it every five minutes, though I totally understand the temptation—your home will start to smell incredible. The aroma will be so inviting; you might even have to fend off the neighbors.

The last 10 minutes are a great time to cook 1 cup of couscous according to the package instructions. Once everything is ready, you’ll want to remove the chicken and veggies with a slotted spoon, serving them over that fluffy couscous. Don’t forget to spoon some of that luscious sauce over the top.

Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. And remember, if you get a little creative with the ingredients, you might just discover your new favorite flavor combination. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Substitutions & Variations

When it comes to cooking Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken, there’s plenty of room for creativity with substitutions and variations.

For instance, if you’re not a fan of butternut squash, try sweet potatoes or zucchini instead. You can easily swap boneless chicken breast for thighs for a richer flavor.

Want a vegetarian option? Replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. If you’re looking for a different spice profile, add some oregano or paprika.

And don’t forget, you can replace couscous with quinoa or rice for a delightful twist. Adapt this dish to your taste, and enjoy the journey!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken

What goes best with Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken? I love serving it over fluffy couscous, as it absorbs all those delicious juices.

A fresh Greek salad, tossed with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, adds a revitalizing crunch. You can’t go wrong with warm pita bread on the side, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

For a heartier option, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the flavors beautifully. Don’t forget a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon juice to brighten everything up.

Enjoy these sides to elevate your meal experience!

Additional Tips & Notes

Serving Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken with the right sides can truly enhance your dining experience.

I recommend adding a fresh Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor. If you want a little crunch, some pita chips or toasted bread work great too.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil—they really brighten the dish!

Also, feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

Finally, save any leftovers; they’re perfect for a quick lunch the next day! Enjoy!