Slow Cooker Chicken With Olives: A Taste of Home

The scent of simmering tomatoes and garlic always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I remember watching her, mesmerized, as she transformed simple ingredients into deeply flavorful stews. This Slow Cooker Chicken With Olives, with its savory notes and tender chicken, evokes that same feeling of warmth and comfort, a taste of home in every bite. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and satisfyingly delicious, perfect for those evenings when you crave a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours (High) / 8 hours (Low)
• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (High) / 8 hours 20 minutes (Low)
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut in half
• 1 large green bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup pimento stuffed olives
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 chicken legs with thigh, skin and fat removed (about 3 lb.)

Equipment Needed

• 4-1/2 quart slow cooker (crock pot)

Instructions

1. In a 4-1/2 quart crock pot, combine the potatoes, green bell pepper, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, chicken broth, pimento stuffed olives, olive oil, tomato paste, salt, ground black pepper, and bay leaf.
2. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined evenly. This step helps distribute the flavors throughout the dish.
3. Add the chicken legs with thigh to the slow cooker.
4. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce and vegetable mixture. Ensure the chicken is submerged as much as possible for even cooking and flavor absorption.
5. Cover the crock pot tightly.
6. Cook on HIGH heat setting for 5 hours, or on LOW heat setting for 8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness periodically. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Discard the bay leaf before serving. The bay leaf has imparted its flavor during cooking and is no longer needed.
8. If desired, remove excess fat from the chicken before serving. You can skim the fat from the surface of the sauce using a spoon or ladle.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Browning the Chicken: For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet with a little olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This will create a beautiful sear and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the entire dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply transfer it to the slow cooker and cook according to the recipe instructions.
• Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by whisking together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stirring it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the slow cooker for an aromatic boost. Tie the herbs together with kitchen twine for easy removal before serving.
• Olive Options: Experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano, for a unique flavor profile.
• Chicken Thighs Only: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
• Salt Control: Taste and adjust the salt level according to your preference. Keep in mind that the olives and tomato sauce already contain salt.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Chicken With Olives is delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, or couscous. You can also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce. To garnish, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through.
• Slow Cooker: For a hands-off approach, reheat the leftovers in the slow cooker on low heat for 1-2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	505.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	193 g	38%
Total Fat	21.5 g	33%
Saturated Fat	5.9 g	29%
Cholesterol	138.6 mg	46%
Sodium	797.5 mg	33%
Total Carbohydrate	41.8 g	13%
Dietary Fiber	6 g	24%
Sugars	6.3 g	N/A
Protein	36 g	72%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spanish Flair: Add a pinch of smoked paprika and a splash of sherry vinegar for a more authentic Spanish flavor.
• Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and fresh basil for an Italian-inspired version.
• Lemon Herb: Brighten the dish with lemon zest, lemon juice, and a medley of fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Use sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken legs with thigh. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian-friendly meal.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken for optimal cooking and flavor. If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, celery, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Use the “Slow Cook” setting and follow the same instructions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cooking times.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Ensure the chicken is submerged in the sauce as much as possible. You can also add a little extra chicken broth if needed.

Q: Can I use different types of olives?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives stuffed with garlic. Choose your favorite or use a combination for a more complex flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken With Olives is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a comforting and flavorful meal that will warm your heart and nourish your soul. The simplicity of the preparation combined with the depth of the flavors makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Feel free to experiment with variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your culinary creations with loved ones! Consider serving this delightful chicken dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.