Name: Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole, 2%, or lowfat); 2–4 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated; 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; Juice of 1 lemon; 2–3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup chicken broth or water

Jump to Recipe

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a bright, herby, and protein-packed dish that brings Mediterranean flavors straight to your table with minimal effort. Featuring tender, slow-cooked chicken paired with a tangy lemon Greek yogurt sauce, this meal is fresh yet hearty, perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or easy meal prep. The chicken is infused with garlic, lemon, and traditional Greek seasonings, while the creamy yogurt sauce adds a zesty finish that pulls everything together. Whether served in pitas, over rice, or with a fresh salad, this dish delivers vibrant flavor in every bite and showcases how comforting and nourishing simple ingredients can be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bright and Tangy Mediterranean Flavors

Lemon, garlic, and herbs give this dish its signature Greek taste, enhanced by the creamy yogurt sauce.

2. Incredibly Tender Chicken

The slow cooker ensures the chicken stays moist and juicy, perfect for shredding or slicing.

3. Healthy and High-Protein

This recipe is rich in lean protein and low in carbs, making it a wholesome choice for any diet.

4. Easy to Prepare

Minimal hands-on time and pantry staples make it an ideal weeknight or meal prep recipe.

5. Versatile Serving Options

Serve it in bowls, wraps, salads, or even as a filling for grain bowls or pasta dishes.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Greek Yogurt Sauce:

Plain Greek yogurt (whole, 2%, or low-fat)
Garlic cloves
Fresh lemon zest

Fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt

For the Greek Chicken:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Variations

Add Herbs and Spices

Season the chicken with oregano, thyme, rosemary, or a Greek spice blend for a deeper flavor.

Make It Dairy-Free

Swap the yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative and ensure it’s unsweetened and plain.

Use Chicken Thighs

For a juicier and more flavorful result, opt for boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Add Vegetables

Include sliced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini in the slow cooker to make it a one-pot meal.

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the chicken for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Season generously with kosher salt and any additional herbs or spices if desired.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 3: Shred or Slice the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or slice it as desired. Return it to the juices for added flavor.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Greek Yogurt Sauce

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and kosher salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the chicken warm with a generous spoonful of yogurt sauce over top or on the side.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh lemon juice and zest: This makes a huge difference in the brightness and authenticity of the flavor.
Salt in layers: Season both the chicken and the sauce to bring out the full Mediterranean profile.

Let the chicken rest: Allowing it to sit in the juices before serving enhances its flavor.
Make the yogurt sauce ahead: It stores well in the fridge and gets even more flavorful over time.
Add broth for juicier chicken: If you like more sauce, add a splash of chicken broth to the slow cooker.

How to Serve

Serve Slow Cooker Greek Chicken in a variety of ways: wrapped in warm pita bread with cucumbers and tomatoes, over rice or couscous, or alongside roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad or as a protein boost in grain bowls. The yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, making it suitable for hot or cold presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooked chicken and yogurt sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

The chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The yogurt sauce is best made fresh, as freezing can alter its texture.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. Serve with freshly stirred yogurt sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken with bones?

Yes, but cooking time will increase slightly. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. What type of yogurt works best?

Plain Greek yogurt (whole or 2%) is ideal for creaminess and tang, but low-fat versions also work.

3. Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes, bake covered at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

4. Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, but it will change the flavor profile slightly from traditional Greek to more citrusy.

5. How do I prevent the yogurt sauce from being too garlicky?

Use fewer garlic cloves or roast the garlic before adding to mellow its intensity.

6. Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if served with cauliflower rice or greens.

7. Can I prep the sauce in advance?

Absolutely. The yogurt sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

8. How do I keep the chicken moist?

Avoid overcooking and let it sit in the slow cooker juices after shredding to absorb more flavor.

9. Can I add olives or feta?

Yes, both are excellent Mediterranean toppings that pair beautifully with this dish.

10. Is this freezer-friendly?

The chicken is, but the yogurt sauce is best made fresh.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken is a deliciously simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a meal full of fresh Mediterranean flavor. With juicy, seasoned chicken and a zesty lemon yogurt sauce, it’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Versatile and make-ahead friendly, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules while offering bold, bright taste in every bite. Whether served in a wrap, over a salad, or alongside classic Greek sides, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.