If you are craving a hearty, deeply flavorful poultry dish that requires minimal fuss but offers maximum reward, then you are in for a treat with this Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired slow cooker marvel brings together tender chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, savory olives, and aromatic herbs all simmered to perfection in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, with every bite delivering a blissful harmony of taste and texture that will have you reaching for seconds and then some.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the backbone of this dish, each chosen to complement and elevate the others. From the succulent chicken thighs to the bright burst of bell peppers and the briny kiss of olives, these staples come together beautifully to create a complex yet approachable flavor profile.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that holds up well to slow cooking without drying out.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing, it adds a subtle richness and helps develop deeper flavors.
- 1 large onion (sliced): Offers sweetness and aromatic depth as it softens.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic’s pungency enhances the savory base of the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped): Brings color and a sweet, crisp contrast.
- 1 yellow bell pepper (chopped): Adds bright, sunny notes and balances the red pepper.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices: The essential tomato element that forms the luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses savory undertones.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that brings earthy, aromatic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a Mediterranean flair to the overall seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers gentle heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick of spice.
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives (sliced): Adds briny complexity and a touch of indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Freshness and color to brighten the finished dish.
How to Make Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe
Step 1: Sear to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Take your chicken thighs and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side just until they develop a lovely light brown crust. This step locks in the juices and builds flavor that will infuse the entire dish. Once browned, transfer the thighs to your crockpot and set the skillet aside for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Using the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions, minced garlic, and chopped red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. This is where your kitchen will start to smell incredible! Then add everything on top of the chicken in the crockpot.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time for the magic mix. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Sprinkle over smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Give the crockpot a gentle stir to combine all these vibrant ingredients, making sure the chicken gets well coated with the rich sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Bliss
Cover your crockpot and let everything cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, choose the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. The low-and-slow approach is the key to melting the chicken into fall-apart tender perfection while deepening the sauce’s flavors into a sumptuous medley that you’ll crave again and again.
Step 5: Finish with Olives and Fresh Parsley
Thirty minutes before serving, stir in the sliced black olives. These bring a briny pop that complements the smokiness and herbs beautifully. When ready to serve, decide if you want to leave the chicken thighs whole for a rustic feel or gently shred them with two forks for a comforting, stew-like texture. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten and elevate every mouthful.
How to Serve Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the rich tomato sauce. For extra zing, a squeeze of lemon or a few lemon zest flakes can work wonders in awakening the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This dish truly shines when paired with sides that soak up its savory sauce. Think creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy couscous, or even a wholesome serving of steamed rice. Each serves as the perfect canvas to capture the juicy, succulent sauce and poultry.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving this Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe in rustic individual bowls topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Another fun idea is to pile the shredded chicken and sauce over roasted vegetables or even spread it inside warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired handheld feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry because the flavors only intensify after sitting overnight. Store the dish in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready, bring it back to life with a gentle reheat on the stove or microwave.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully and makes for a convenient, comforting meal whenever you need it. Simply portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the crockpot poultry gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can, but chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking. Breasts might dry out if cooked too long, so reduce cooking time if you swap them out.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Just make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free as some brands may contain additives.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas make excellent additions, providing extra texture and nutrition. Just add them at the beginning or midway through cooking depending on the vegetable’s cooking time.
What can I substitute for olives if I don’t like them?
If you’re not an olive fan, try capers for a similar briny punch or simply leave them out altogether. The dish will still be delicious and flavorful.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild to medium heat level if included. You can adjust the quantity according to your taste or omit them for a milder version.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about gathering around comfort food that feels both indulgent and wholesome, and this Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe fits that description perfectly. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a medley of vibrant Mediterranean flavors and tender chicken without hours of hands-on cooking. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. So grab your crockpot, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to savor every satisfying spoonful of this delightful poultry extravaganza!
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Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired poultry stew made easy in a crockpot. Tender chicken thighs are lightly seared then slow-cooked with sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and olives, infused with smoky paprika and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner served over rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken to the crockpot.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften. Add these sautéed vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add liquids and spices: To the crockpot, add diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Slow cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Incorporate olives: About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, add the sliced black olives to the crockpot and stir gently.
- Finish and serve: Before serving, shred the chicken gently with two forks if desired or leave the thighs whole. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve over rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a richer, deeper flavor, substitute part of the chicken broth with dry white wine.
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas to the crockpot for extra texture and nutritional variety.
- This dish freezes well—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
