Crockpot Mediterranean Chicken Stew

Name: Crockpot Mediterranean Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced; 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I love making this Crockpot Mediterranean Chicken Stew on busy weeknights because it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the herbs and spices to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that my family enjoys. Using wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and hearty olives, I can rest assured knowing we're having a nutritious meal. Plus, the best part is that I can set it and forget it, which gives me more time to unwind after a long day.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:14:29.035Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how effortlessly it came together. The blend of artichokes, tomatoes, and olives gives the stew a Mediterranean flair that’s truly delightful. I’ve made it multiple times since, tweaking the ingredients each time for a unique twist, but the base flavors remain perfectly savory.

I discovered that using a good quality chicken broth enhances the overall taste, making it more robust and flavorful. Don't shy away from adding a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors—it really elevates the dish!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that create a warm, inviting meal
Easy preparation and minimal cleanup
Perfectly tender chicken that soaks up the stew's flavors

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this stew, I highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The thighs are more forgiving during the slow cooking process, staying moist and tender while absorbing the stew's rich flavors. If you do prefer chicken breasts, be mindful that they can dry out more easily; reducing the cooking time slightly can help retain their juiciness.

If you're looking for a leaner option, you could also substitute turkey thighs for an equally delicious and hearty result. Simply adjust the salt and seasoning levels to suit your taste since different meats can require different balances.

Maximizing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

The combination of oregano and thyme in this stew isn't just for flavor; these herbs work beautifully together to create depth. Dried herbs are perfect since they infuse the dish with their essence over long cooking periods. For an extra boost, consider adding a bay leaf or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix—these can bring a pleasant warmth without overpowering the dish.

While fresh herbs are lovely, using dried ensures consistent flavor during the slow cooking process. If you have any fresh herbs on hand when serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten the presentation and elevate the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Mediterranean Chicken Stew is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa for a nutty flavor and added texture. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the stew, balancing the meal with freshness.

If you're in the mood for something different, serve the stew with orzo pasta cooked separately. It'll absorb some of the sauce while providing a filling base. You can even sprinkle some feta cheese over the top for an extra touch of Mediterranean flair, enhancing the dish with a creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the dish wholesome and delicious:

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to make the cooking process smoother and quicker.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the vegetables and mincing the garlic. This will save you time once you start assembling the stew.

Combine in the Crockpot

Place the chicken, red and yellow bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Make sure everything is evenly coated.

Set and Forget

Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Let it simmer and develop those deep flavors.

Add Lemon Juice

Once cooked, stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen while the stew cooks, and get ready for a delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute chicken thighs with breasts or even use vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is ideal for meal prep! You can assemble all the ingredients a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to keep the raw chicken separate from the vegetables to maintain freshness. When stored properly, the cooked stew can last in the fridge for up to 4 days—or you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it if it thickens too much.

Common Troubleshooting and Tips

If you find that your stew is turning out too watery, it often means that your vegetables have released too much moisture. One trick is to remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate, concentrating the flavors. If it's too thick, add a little more chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.

Another common concern is having tough chicken after cooking. This can happen if the stew is cooked on high heat for too long. Always stick to low for the full time or follow the recommended high setting, and check for doneness; chicken should be fork-tender and easily shreddable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.

→ Can this be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with the stew?

The stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even over a bed of quinoa.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, the stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container for up to three months.