Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken With Sun Dried Tomatoes

The aroma alone transports me back to a small taverna on the Greek coast. Sunlight streams through the open windows, carrying the salty tang of the sea. This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken, with its rich tapestry of flavors – the briny olives, the bright acidity of sun-dried tomatoes, the tender chicken infused with garlic and herbs – is a dish that captures that feeling of warmth, relaxation, and simple, delicious food. It’s a reminder that some of the best meals are the ones that simmer slowly, filling the house with their enticing scent.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-8 hours
• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Dietary Type: Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 6-8 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 2 pounds)
• 2 (10 ¾ ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup white wine
• ¼ cup coarsely chopped kalamata olives or ¼ cup other oil-cured olives
• 2 tablespoons drained capers
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup jarred sun-dried tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves (optional)

Equipment Needed

• 3 ½ quart slow cooker (or larger)

Instructions

1. In a 3 ½ quart slow cooker, stir together the cream of chicken soup, white wine, olives, capers, minced garlic, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s okay to use a larger slow cooker, but a smaller one might not accommodate all the ingredients.

2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, turning to coat them thoroughly in the sauce mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed and submerged as much as possible.

3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a chicken breast.

4. Once the chicken is cooked and easily shreds with a fork, it’s ready to serve.

5. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes! They impart a unique sweetness and tanginess that is crucial to the Mediterranean flavor profile. If you’re using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, be sure to drain them well to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
• For a richer flavor, try browning the chicken breasts in a skillet with a little olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a beautiful sear and enhances the savory notes.
• If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• To intensify the garlic flavor, lightly sauté the minced garlic in a teaspoon of olive oil for a minute or two before adding it to the slow cooker. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
• Spice it up! A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce will add a subtle kick.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over pasta, rice, couscous, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s also fantastic with crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

It’s safe to leave cooked chicken at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	318.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	86 g	27%
Total Fat	9.6 g	14%
Saturated Fat	2.5 g	12%
Cholesterol	83.1 mg	27%
Sodium	1156.8 mg	48%
Total Carbohydrate	21.5 g	7%
Dietary Fiber	7.1 g	28%
Sugars	5 g	19%
Protein	30.7 g	61%

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

Variations & Substitutions

• For a Dairy-Free version: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cashew cream sauce.
• Mediterranean Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, more flavorful dish.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a heartier meal. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
• Herbs de Provence: Instead of fresh basil, use a tablespoon of Herbs de Provence for a classic Mediterranean flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to brighten the flavors of the dish.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: While fresh chicken breasts are recommended for best results, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the slow cooker.

Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes, you can cook this on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 7-8 hours. However, cooking on low yields a more tender and flavorful result.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.

Q: What if I don’t have kalamata olives?
A: You can use any type of oil-cured olive you prefer. Green olives or black olives will also work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, cook as directed the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken with Sun Dried Tomatoes is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of Mediterranean cuisine. I hope this dish fills your home with warmth and your table with smiles. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations and serving suggestions – I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Perhaps a crisp glass of chilled Pinot Grigio would be the perfect accompaniment to this delightful meal.