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
Scale
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.
