Slow Cooker Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe

Cook Time: 250 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 16g
• Carbs: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 189mg
• Sodium: 492mg
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 2g
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 67mg
• Iron: 2mg
• Potassium: 481mg

Directions

1. Place the chicken thighs into a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, basil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add half of the yogurt mixture to the chicken and toss until each piece is coated. Refrigerate the remaining mixture for later use.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. Remove the chicken and roughly chop it. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove some of the cooking liquid; otherwise, leave it for a saucier dish.
6. Return the chopped chicken to the slow cooker and stir in 1/4 cup of the reserved yogurt mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Cover and let the chicken warm through for about 10 minutes.
8. Serve the remaining yogurt mixture alongside the chicken if desired.

Cook's Note

Skinless, boneless chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, but cooking time may need adjustment.

History and Origins of Greek Yogurt Chicken

Greek yogurt chicken, as a modern culinary creation, draws inspiration from traditional Mediterranean cooking, where yogurt has long been used as a tenderizing and flavor-enhancing ingredient for meats. While the concept of marinating chicken in yogurt dates back centuries in Greece and the broader Middle East, the slow cooker adaptation is distinctly contemporary, merging classic flavors with convenience. The use of Greek yogurt specifically adds a rich, creamy texture and a tangy depth that complements herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil, echoing the balance of freshness and earthiness characteristic of Greek cuisine.

Regional Variations and Features

Across Greece and neighboring regions, variations of yogurt-marinated chicken can differ in the choice of herbs, cooking techniques, and accompanying sides. In Northern Greece, you may find more emphasis on dill and lemon, while Southern regions favor robust oregano and garlic notes. The American adaptation, especially in slow cooker recipes, focuses on achieving a consistent, juicy texture without intense hands-on preparation. This method highlights the versatility of Greek yogurt, which not only flavors the meat but also creates a natural sauce during cooking.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional roasted or grilled Greek chicken dishes, slow cooker Greek yogurt chicken emphasizes a longer, gentler cooking process that ensures tenderness and allows the yogurt-based sauce to infuse the meat thoroughly. Compared to dishes like Tzatziki chicken or yogurt-marinated kebabs, the slow cooker method results in a softer, juicier texture and a milder, creamier sauce, rather than the crisp exterior of a broiled or grilled preparation.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is commonly served as a comforting family dinner, often accompanied by rice, roasted vegetables, or stuffed into pita bread with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. It also fits well into casual gatherings or meal-prep plans due to its easy-to-scale recipe and minimal active cooking time. The creamy sauce allows it to pair seamlessly with Mediterranean-style sides, such as Greek salad or lemon-infused potatoes.

Interesting Facts

• Greek yogurt is strained more than regular yogurt, giving it a higher protein content, which contributes to both flavor and nutritional value in this dish.
• The acidity in Greek yogurt helps tenderize chicken naturally, allowing it to stay moist even after several hours of slow cooking.
• This method of slow cooking with yogurt is relatively recent; historically, yogurt-based marinades were mostly used for quick grilling or oven roasting.
• The recipe reflects a broader trend in fusion cuisine, where traditional ingredients meet modern cooking appliances to create accessible, flavorful meals.
• Adding reserved yogurt after cooking helps balance the sauce, providing a tangy finish without curdling from prolonged heat exposure.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Greek Yogurt Chicken Recipe

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