Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean with our mouthwatering Crock Pot Mediterranean Chicken! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a hassle-free way to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Imagine tender chicken breasts infused with the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and aromatic garlic, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crock pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Read on to discover how to create this delectable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely and set aside. Halve the cherry tomatoes and roughly chop the Kalamata olives.
- Drizzle olive oil into the bottom of the crock pot, creating an even coating to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the crock pot in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the chicken breasts, then distribute the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped Kalamata olives around and on top of the chicken.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb the Mediterranean flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken breasts and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Spoon the accumulated juices, tomatoes, and olives over the chicken when plating for extra flavor.
Tips
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and oregano! Generously seasoning the chicken before cooking will enhance the flavors and ensure every bite is delicious.
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables the night before. Simply store them in the fridge and add them to the crock pot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
- Layering Matters: Make sure to layer your ingredients properly. Start with the olive oil, then add the seasoned chicken, followed by the garlic, tomatoes, and olives. This helps distribute the flavors evenly as they cook.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Mediterranean chicken with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete the meal and soak up all those delicious juices!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 105mg
