Name: Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 large lemon, juiced and zested; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep is an ideal recipe for anyone seeking a nutritious, flavorful, and convenient solution for busy weekdays. Rooted in the rich traditions of Greek cuisine, this dish bathes tender chicken in a medley of zesty lemon, aromatic oregano, garlic, and olives.

Its origins trace back to the simple yet vibrant flavors that characterize Mediterranean cooking, renowned for health and longevity. By using a slow cooker, you harness the classic Greek flavors and make meal prep truly effortless.

This method results in perfectly moist chicken that soaks up all the seasonings, making every bite a taste of the Mediterranean. In today’s fast-paced world, meal prep has become a cornerstone of healthy living.

Recipes like this Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep not only save precious time but also ensure you have a wholesome, protein-packed dish ready to enhance salads, wraps, bowls, or grain dishes throughout the week.

Bursting with fresh, accessible ingredients and combined with minimal hands-on time, this recipe stands out for its practicality, taste, and nutritional value. Dive into an approachable Greek chicken recipe perfectly tailored for meal prepping, families, and anyone looking to bring the bright flavors of Greece to their kitchen.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 large lemon, juiced and zested
4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon sea salt
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel and place them in the bowl of your slow cooker.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, basil, black pepper, and salt to create the Greek marinade.
Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated.
Scatter the sliced red onion, kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes over the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred or slice as desired.
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and toss with the juices and vegetables to soak up more flavor.
Portion the Greek chicken and vegetables into individual meal prep containers.

Top each serving with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley before storing or serving.

Nutritional Information

Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep delivers an impressive array of essential nutrients. Lean chicken forms the protein-rich base, supporting muscle repair and maintenance.

One typical serving (about 4 ounces of cooked chicken with vegetables) provides approximately 280 calories, 30 grams of protein, 14 grams of healthy fats (largely from olive oil), and just 6 grams of carbohydrates. Olives add a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

Red onion and cherry tomatoes contribute beneficial phytonutrients and fiber, aiding digestive health and helping you feel full. Garlic brings immune-boosting compounds, while herbs like oregano and thyme offer potent anti-inflammatory effects.

The optional feta cheese adds a touch of calcium and flavor, though can be omitted for a dairy-free version. This balanced profile makes the recipe suitable for many diets, including low-carb, gluten-free, keto, or Mediterranean plans.

Its carefully balanced macros and lack of processed ingredients also support stable blood sugar levels and long-lasting energy, making it a perfect addition to any health-conscious meal prep routine.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

This Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep pairs wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko, a classic Greek varietal, to retain the spirit of Mediterranean dining. If you prefer red wine, go for a light-bodied Pinot Noir or an Agiorgitiko.

For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon, herbal iced tea, or a homemade cucumber-mint lemonade will complement the bright, zesty flavors of the dish. These beverages keep the palate refreshed while highlighting the vibrant herbs and spices in the Greek chicken.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To further enhance your Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep, consider these tried-and-true tips. For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator with the olive oil, lemons, garlic, and herbs.

This allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in even more aromatic, zesty chicken. If you prefer a richer dish, substitute chicken thighs for breasts, as thighs remain moist during slow cooking and absorb flavor exceptionally well.

For added crunch or color, stir in chopped bell pepper or zucchini with the onions and olives. To heat things up, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili.

Make this recipe your own by swapping out the traditional feta for goat cheese or omitting cheese entirely for a dairy-free version. Batch-cook a double recipe and freeze half in airtight containers for a ready-to-eat Greek chicken meal. For a hands-off method, use pre-sliced onions and pre-minced garlic.

Finally, remember to scrape up all the delicious juices left in the slow cooker to drizzle atop each serving for maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep offers endless versatility. For a balanced meal, spoon the shredded Greek chicken with its vegetables over a fluffy bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous. For lower-carb options, serve it atop cauliflower rice or a heap of spiralized zucchini noodles.

This dish also shines as a filling for grain bowls, layered with roasted vegetables, fresh greens like spinach or arugula, and a drizzle of tzatziki. Wrap it in whole wheat pita or a lavash flatbread with sliced cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta for an irresistible grab-and-go lunch.

If prepping for a family, arrange the chicken and veggies on a large platter, garnish with feta and parsley, and serve alongside warm pita wedges and a crisp Greek salad. The leftovers retain their flavor and moisture, making them excellent for salads, wraps, or simply on their own.

This meal-prep format allows you to portion out healthy lunches throughout the week or offer a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings or family dinners, always tasting freshly made.

Health Benefits

The health benefits of Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep are substantial. Lean chicken provides a high-quality source of protein while being low in saturated fat, making it heart-friendly and supportive of weight management.

Olive oil, a core element of Greek cuisine, is packed with monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, which play a role in reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol profiles. The use of fresh garlic, oregano, and thyme enhances the dish with natural anti-microbial and antioxidant compounds that may support immune health.

Including red onions and cherry tomatoes ensures you’re adding fiber, vitamins C and K, and plant-based pigments associated with disease prevention. Kalamata olives have healthy fats, vitamin E, and polyphenols for cardiovascular wellness. The recipe is also naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by omitting the feta.

Relying on whole foods, herbs, and healthy fats, this Greek chicken is aligned with the Mediterranean dietary pattern, widely recognized for supporting longevity, cognitive function, and overall vitality. Meal prepping with such nutrient-rich recipes helps maintain consistent healthy eating habits, manages hunger, and supports a fit, active lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

For food safety, it is best to use thawed chicken in your slow cooker to ensure even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator before beginning the recipe.

How long will meal prepped Greek chicken last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in airtight containers, Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze portions for later?

Yes, the cooked Greek chicken freezes very well. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy protein and fats, making it perfect for keto and low-carb meal plans.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Arrange the chicken and all ingredients in a covered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

If you are searching for a healthy, flavorful, and hands-off solution to your weekly meal prep, look no further than Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep. With tender chicken, vibrant herbs, and Mediterranean vegetables, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition. The flexible serving options and make-ahead convenience let you enjoy wholesome homemade meals whether you’re at work, home, or on the go. Bring a taste of Greece into your kitchen and experience how easy, delicious, and nourishing meal prep can be with this standout slow cooker recipe.

Easy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken for Meal Prep