When my daughter asked me for a Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe a few months ago, I wasn’t surprised she wanted something comforting yet full of flavor. She had just moved into her first apartment and was eager to try easy meals that reminded her of home dinners. I made this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe that weekend, and the way everyone gathered around the table, savoring each bite, reminded me again why this recipe stays on my meal rotation.
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is the kind of dish that works for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. It’s simple to put together but packed with bright lemon, garlic, and herbs that taste like a little Mediterranean vacation. What I love most is how it turns inexpensive slow cooker chicken thighs into tender, juicy family favorites everyone asks for.
I had my moments figuring out how to get the balance just right between tangy lemon and savory garlic, but once I nailed it, this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe became a reliable meal win for my family. It always fills our kitchen with a cozy aroma that feels welcoming.
If you want a meal that brings your family together around the table—no complicated steps, just full flavor and easy cleanup—this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is for you. Let’s get your slow cooker ready! For a similar cozy dinner idea, you might also enjoy my slow cooker chicken korma recipe, which shares that same easy weeknight magic.
What You’ll Need
Here’s the ingredient list for this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe – trust me, it keeps things simple without sacrificing any of that fabulous flavor.
- 2.5 pounds of bone-in, skinless slow cooker chicken thighs (dark meat stays juicy and tender in the crockpot)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t shy away from garlic in this Greek lemon garlic chicken)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano (the Greek seasoning that makes this Mediterranean chicken slow cooker magic)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (adds just enough moisture)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional but adds authentic Greek flavor)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions (for a little sweetness and texture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the best Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe, I recommend bone-in, skinless chicken thighs because they remain tender and juicy after hours in the slow cooker. You’ll find everything for this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe at your regular grocery store. If you’re short on fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is best for that bright flavor.
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is forgiving if you need to swap dried herbs—Italian seasoning is a fine stand-in for oregano and thyme, or skip olives if your family doesn’t love them. My family prefers when I use skinless chicken thighs in this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe because it’s easier to eat, but the skin-on version is full of flavor too.
Before cooking, I like to mince garlic and slice the onions to save time later. Pro tip: toss the chicken in olive oil and spices before layering it in the slow cooker to help lock in flavors.
How to Make It
Follow these steps for a Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe that’s almost foolproof and sure to please your family.
- Prep your chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Sear if you have time: Browning the chicken in a hot skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil adds extra flavor but is optional if you’re short on time. If you want to skip this step, your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe will still be delicious.
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, chicken broth, and remaining olive oil.
- Layer ingredients: Place the sliced red onions in the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the chicken thighs on top and pour the lemon garlic mixture over everything.
- Add olives (optional): Scatter kalamata olives over the chicken for a nice punch of Mediterranean flavor.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe typically takes me about 6 hours on low, which lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Check doneness: You’ll know your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is ready when the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The meat should pull apart easily.
- Finish and garnish: Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe cooks, filling the house with bright lemon and garlic aromas.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe—sometimes I added too much lemon juice and overwhelmed the other flavors. Now I always balance that tartness with enough broth and olive oil.
Don’t worry if your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe looks juicy or even a bit wet when it’s done. That sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or crusty bread!
While your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe is cooking, you’ll have plenty of time to set the table, prep a quick salad, or even relax with your family.
Serving Ideas
Everyone reaches for seconds when this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe comes out with its tender chicken and bright lemon-garlic taste. My family loves serving it over fluffy couscous, homemade rice pilaf, or alongside roasted vegetables.

This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe also shines when paired with a fresh Greek salad or warm pita bread to soak up the sauce. On busy weeknights, I sometimes serve it with simple steamed green beans or frozen broccoli for a quick balanced meal.
For celebrations or cozy Sunday dinners, this Mediterranean chicken slow cooker dish stands out beautifully on the table. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, but still feels fresh and light with those classic Greek seasonings.
Leftovers are fantastic too. My family enjoys turning the leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe into wraps or salads the next day. The flavors only deepen with time.
If your family is a fan of crockpot chicken recipes, they’ll love mixing things up with this Greek lemon garlic chicken. If they like variations, try adding artichoke hearts or a sprinkle of feta just before serving.
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe has received plenty of compliments around our table. It surprises people how such simple ingredients blend into something so satisfying.
Your Questions Answered
Here are the most common questions I get about this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe from friends and readers. Hopefully, these answers help you find your own kitchen wins.
Can I make this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoning mixture and chicken the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge and just set it in the slow cooker the next day. Leftovers also reheat well for quick lunches or dinners.
What if I don’t have oregano or rosemary?
No problem. Italian seasoning works well as a substitute. Thyme is key for that herbal note, but you can skip rosemary if you don’t have it. Your Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe will still taste delicious.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Chicken thighs are my go-to because they stay juicy in the slow cooker. Breasts tend to dry out with long cooking, but if you prefer them, cook on low for less time and check often to keep chicken tender.
How do I store leftover Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze, portion it and freeze in sealed bags for up to three months.
Can I make this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown chicken thighs first. Then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes with the lemon garlic broth. Be sure to release pressure naturally for best results.
What sides pair well with this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe?
Rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, and Greek salad all complement the lemon garlic flavors nicely. Pita bread is great for soaking up juices.
How do I adjust the recipe for spicier flavors?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the seasoning mixture. The heat pairs nicely with lemon and garlic without overpowering the dish.
If your family loves this recipe style, you might also enjoy another crockpot chicken recipe like the slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe for more Italian-inspired comfort or the chicken Alfredo soup for a creamy, cozy option.
The Final Word
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe has earned its place in my recipe collection because it delivers big flavors with minimal effort. It fits perfectly into busy weeknights or when I want a simple but special family meal.
My Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe Tips:
– Use bone-in chicken thighs for the best juicy texture.
– Don’t skip fresh lemon juice—it brightens the whole dish.
– Remember browning the chicken is optional but adds a nice depth.
I’ve also tried variations like adding diced tomatoes for a stew-like feel or topping the finished dish with crumbled feta for extra richness. My kids prefer it plain, while my husband loves it with olives and fresh herbs piled on.
I hope you give this Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe a try and that it becomes a family favorite at your table too. It’s the kind of recipe that makes mealtime easier without giving up the flavors that everyone loves. For more family-friendly slow cooker chicken ideas, check out this slow cooker chicken korma recipe or dive into a hearty slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe.
And if you want a fresh spin on Greek lemon chicken, you might enjoy this Greek Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes from Cooking Classy. Also, Real Food Whole Life offers a lovely Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe with a few different tweaks.
Here’s to many cozy meals around your kitchen table filled with silly stories, satisfied smiles, and the simple joy of good food made easy. You’ve got this!
Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe
This Slow Cooker Greek Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken cooked with classic Mediterranean herbs and lemon, perfect for an easy and healthy dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Total Time: 310 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooked
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the olive oil mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Add chicken broth, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and red onion on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of side, such as rice or roasted vegetables.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving or serve with warm pita bread on the side.

