There’s something special about walking into your home and being greeted by the warm, savory scent of chicken cooking in a slow cooker. I have fond memories of family dinners, where the aroma would weave its way through the house, bringing us all to the table. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt Marinade is a dish that holds a cherished place in my heart. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal without the fuss. The yogurt marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender, while the hint of lemon and garlic adds refreshing flavor. You’ll love how this recipe allows you to savor the moment, as you enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones.
why make this recipe
This recipe stands out because it combines convenience with great taste. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together over several hours, making the chicken incredibly flavorful and tender. The Greek yogurt marinade not only adds a creamy texture but also helps keep the chicken moist. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You can set it and forget it, which is ideal for busy weekdays.
how to make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken With Greek Yogurt Marinade
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts or skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 tsp minced garlic cloves
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts inside the crock pot. Add half of the yogurt mixture over the chicken. Reserve the rest for later in the fridge.
- Mix well to ensure all sides of the chicken are covered with the marinade.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and strain off the excess liquid.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and add the remaining yogurt marinade.
- Mix well.
- Sprinkle with parsley for a touch of color and serve it up hot. Enjoy!
how to serve Easy Slow Cooker Chicken With Greek Yogurt Marinade
This chicken is delicious served over rice, quinoa, or in a salad. You can add some roasted vegetables or a side of steamed greens for extra nutrition. It also makes a fantastic filling for wraps or sandwiches. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
how to store Easy Slow Cooker Chicken With Greek Yogurt Marinade
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
tips to make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken With Greek Yogurt Marinade
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the yogurt mixture.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for an extra kick.
- If you like a crispy finish, you can broil the shredded chicken for a few minutes after cooking.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables to the slow cooker. Consider including bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a complete one-pot meal. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it’s cooked through.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you’re out of Greek yogurt, plain yogurt or sour cream can be good substitutes, though they may slightly change the flavor.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook it in an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes and then shred the chicken as directed.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken with Greek Yogurt Marinade
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large large chicken breasts or skinless chicken thighs About 2 pounds
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 tsp minced garlic cloves
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- Chopped parsley For garnish
Method
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts inside the crock pot. Add half of the yogurt mixture over the chicken. Reserve the rest for later in the fridge.
- Mix well to ensure all sides of the chicken are covered with the marinade.
Cooking
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and strain off the excess liquid.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and add the remaining yogurt marinade. Mix well.
Serving
- Sprinkle with parsley for a touch of color and serve it up hot.