Slow Cooker Chicken with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add an extra layer of brightness to the final dish, consider finishing the chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of freshly chopped parsley just before serving. These additions can cut through the richness of the slow-cooked sauce and provide a vibrant contrast that elevates the overall presentation and flavor profile of the meal.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken once cooked and stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water, then set the slow cooker to high for 10 minutes to reduce it further.

Alternatively, you can mash a few of the sun-dried tomatoes against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the sauce as they break down during the final resting period.

Variations

• Spicy Olive Chicken: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the assembly phase to introduce a gentle heat that complements the saltiness of the olives.
• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Enhance the herbal profile by adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few cloves of smashed garlic to the pot before cooking for a more aromatic and earthy depth.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the chicken is hot throughout, adding a splash of water if the sauce has become too thick.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Storing the chicken in its sauce helps prevent it from drying out in the refrigerator.

Properly stored, the dish will maintain its quality for up to 3 days. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the absorption of other odors from the refrigerator.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and keep it in the refrigerator overnight, then set it to cook the following morning.

If you prepare it fully ahead of time, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is heated through before serving.

Serving ideas

Serve this chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy polenta, or buttery mashed potatoes to provide a neutral base that complements the tangy and salty notes of the sauce. A side of roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing balance to the savory, concentrated flavors of the slow-cooked chicken.

For a more rustic presentation, serve the chicken in shallow bowls with a side of toasted sourdough bread or focaccia. The bread is perfect for mopping up the remaining sauce, ensuring that none of the rich, tomato-infused juices go to waste.

This makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that is both visually appealing and deeply flavorful, suitable for a casual dinner with family or friends.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Chicken with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place the raw chicken thighs into the bottom of the slow cooker insert, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Scatter the green olives and sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken. Sprinkle the dried oregano evenly over the top, then pour the crushed tomatoes over all the ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the lid, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, then serve.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.