1. Step 1: Prepare the Filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese (light or regular), chopped fresh spinach leaves, bright lemon zest, fresh basil, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (ensure they are well-drained and chopped), and minced garlic cloves. Each ingredient adds a unique layer of Mediterranean flavor, from the salty tang of feta to the aromatic basil and the piquant sun-dried tomatoes.

2. Step 2: Mix Thoroughly. Use a spoon or your hands to mix all the filling ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite of chicken will be infused with the wonderful Mediterranean flavors. Set this vibrant mixture aside while you prepare the chicken.

3. Step 3: Butterfly the Chicken. Begin by patting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the chicken browns nicely if you choose to sear it (though not required for slow cooker method) and helps the filling adhere better. Next, carefully make a horizontal slit into the thickest part of each chicken breast. Do not cut all the way through; you want to open it up like a book, creating a “butterflied” pocket for the stuffing. This technique allows for a larger surface area to fill and helps the chicken cook more evenly.

4. Step 4: Cover the Chicken. Lay each butterflied chicken breast flat on a cutting board or work surface. Place a piece of plastic wrap securely over each piece of chicken. This simple step is crucial for preventing raw chicken splatter and making the pounding process much cleaner and more hygienic.

5. Step 5: Pound the Chicken. Using a meat tenderizer, a kitchen mallet, or even a heavy rolling pin, gently but firmly pound the chicken breasts until they are about ¼ inch thick. The goal here is to create an even thickness, which ensures consistent cooking and makes rolling much easier. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces, aiming for a uniform thickness across them all. This also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more pleasant texture.

6. Step 6: Fill the Chicken. Remove the plastic wrap from one pounded chicken breast. Lay the chicken smooth side down on your work surface. Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the prepared spinach and feta mixture and place it on the wider end of the chicken breast. Ensure the filling is spread somewhat evenly but leaves enough margin around the edges for rolling and sealing.

7. Step 7: Roll the Chicken. Carefully roll the chicken breast tightly, starting from the wider end with the filling. Roll it snugly to create a compact log. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken breasts, making sure to divide the spinach and feta mixture as evenly as possible among all pieces. If you’re new to rolling stuffed chicken, a helpful visual guide can be found here: How to roll a chicken breast.

8. Step 8: Arrange in Slow Cooker. Place the rolled chicken breasts seam-side down in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Placing them seam-side down helps prevent them from unrolling during the cooking process. For extra security, especially if your rolls aren’t very tight, you can insert one or two toothpicks into each chicken breast to hold them together while cooking. Just remember to remove all toothpicks before serving!

9. Step 9: Add Tomatoes. Open the can of diced tomatoes and pour the entire contents, including all the juice, over the rolled chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Do not drain the liquid from the tomatoes, as this juice will create a flavorful and moist sauce for the chicken to cook in, keeping it tender and adding depth to the Mediterranean profile.

10. Step 10: Cook and Serve. Cover your slow cooker and cook the chicken for 4 hours on the HIGH setting, or for 5.5 to 6 hours on the LOW setting. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model, so it’s always best to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) to be safely cooked. Once done, garnish your flavorful chicken breasts with additional whole Kalamata olives and fresh basil leaves for a final flourish of taste and presentation. Serve this delightful dish over a bed of fluffy rice, healthy cauliflower rice (for a lower-carb option), or creamy polenta to soak up all the delicious juices.

📖 Variations & Substitutions to Customize Your Meal

One of the best aspects of this Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adapt it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Olives – While Kalamata olives offer a distinct, robust, and briny flavor that is characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine, you can certainly substitute them with regular black olives if preferred. Keep in mind that regular black olives have a milder taste, so the overall flavor profile will be slightly less intense.
• Herbs – Fresh basil provides a wonderful aromatic note, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or mint for a different, yet equally delicious, twist. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs instead; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll only need half the amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon of dried basil for 2 teaspoons of fresh).
• Feta Cheese – The recipe calls for Greek feta, and you have options! Use regular full-fat feta for a richer flavor, or opt for light/low-fat or even fat-free feta cheese to reduce calories and fat content without sacrificing too much of that characteristic salty tang.
• Spinach – Fresh chopped spinach leaves, whether regular or baby spinach, work perfectly. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to defrost it completely first and then squeeze out all excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent your filling from becoming watery and diluting the flavors.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes – Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are convenient and flavorful. If you only have dehydrated sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them according to package instructions before chopping. For a different flavor and texture, roasted red peppers (from a jar, drained and chopped) can make an excellent substitution for sun-dried tomatoes.
• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. While you can use defrosted frozen chicken breasts, for the best texture and moisture, I highly recommend using chilled chicken breasts that haven’t been previously frozen. Freezing and thawing can sometimes alter the chicken’s texture, making it slightly tougher.
• Spicy – For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch or two of red chili flakes added to the filling will give your stuffed chicken a delightful spicy kick. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a similar effect.

👪 Serving Size & Adjustments

This easy Mediterranean stuffed chicken recipe is designed to yield 6 satisfying servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a few days of meal prep. However, one of the convenient features of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the serving size to suit your needs, whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd. Simply click on the serving number in the recipe card below and select the desired number of servings. The ingredient quantities will automatically adjust, taking the guesswork out of scaling the recipe. This flexibility ensures you always have the right amount, minimizing waste and maximizing convenience.

🔢 Weight Watchers Points (WW Points)

For those following the Weight Watchers program, this recipe is an excellent choice! When prepared with light feta cheese, it clocks in at a lean 4 Weight Watchers points per serving, making it a fantastic option for a healthy and satisfying meal. To keep your meal within your points budget, consider your side dishes carefully. Serving it with ½ cup of cooked white or brown rice adds approximately 3 WW points. For a zero-point alternative, ½ cup of cauliflower rice is a perfect, low-carb accompaniment. If you prefer, ½ cup of polenta will add about 3 WW points, offering another delicious and filling option.

🦺 Essential Food Safety Guidelines

Ensuring food safety is paramount when cooking, especially with poultry. Please keep these guidelines in mind to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Proper Cooking Temperature: Always cook chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C). Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding bone or filling) to confirm doneness.
• Prevent Cross-Contamination: Never use the same utensils, cutting boards, or plates on cooked food that previously touched raw meat. Always wash these items thoroughly with hot, soapy water between uses.
• Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw meat to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Temperature Control: Do not leave cooked food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods. Bacteria multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Refrigerate leftovers promptly within two hours of cooking.
• Supervision: Never leave cooking food unattended, especially when using appliances like a slow cooker.
• Cooking Oils: When searing or cooking at higher temperatures (though not strictly necessary for this slow cooker recipe), use oils with a high smoking point to avoid burning and the creation of harmful compounds.
• Ventilation: Always ensure good ventilation when using a gas stove or any cooking method that produces fumes, to maintain good air quality in your kitchen.

For more comprehensive food safety guidelines, always refer to reputable sources like USDA.gov.

Why Choose a Slow Cooker for Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken?

The slow cooker is truly a hero in the kitchen, especially for recipes like these Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Its “set it and forget it” nature is unparalleled for busy individuals, allowing you to prep your meal in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat dinner. But the benefits extend beyond mere convenience. Slow cooking techniques are exceptional at tenderizing chicken, resulting in incredibly moist and fall-apart tender breasts that might otherwise dry out in a conventional oven. The prolonged, gentle cooking also allows the vibrant Mediterranean flavors from the feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil to meld and deepen beautifully with the rich tomato sauce, creating a complex and satisfying taste that can’t be rushed. Furthermore, a slow cooker keeps your kitchen cool, a welcome advantage during warmer months, and often uses less energy than a traditional oven. It’s the perfect appliance for infusing deep flavors and achieving tender textures with minimal hands-on time, making healthy eating incredibly accessible and enjoyable.

The Health Benefits of Mediterranean Cuisine

This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe isn’t just delicious; it also aligns perfectly with the principles of the renowned Mediterranean diet, celebrated worldwide for its incredible health benefits. This eating pattern emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. Lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, are consumed regularly, while red meat is enjoyed in moderation. The ingredients in this recipe—lean chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, antioxidant-packed tomatoes, heart-healthy olives, and flavorful herbs—exemplify this approach. Following a Mediterranean diet has been linked to numerous health advantages, including improved heart health, reduced risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, better weight management, and enhanced cognitive function. By incorporating meals like this into your routine, you’re not just enjoying a tasty dish; you’re also embracing a wholesome lifestyle that nourishes your body and supports long-term well-being. It’s truly a delicious way to eat for health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To ensure your success with this recipe and answer any common queries, here are some frequently asked questions:

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? While technically possible, for the best texture and juiciness, it’s highly recommended to use fresh, chilled chicken breasts. Frozen chicken can sometimes result in a slightly tougher or drier final product. If you must use frozen, ensure it’s completely thawed before butterflying and stuffing.
• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts and place them in the slow cooker with the diced tomatoes, then refrigerate the entire slow cooker insert overnight. In the morning, simply place the insert back into the slow cooker base and begin cooking. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings.
• How can I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker? The slow cooker naturally helps keep chicken moist, and the undrained diced tomatoes add a crucial layer of liquid. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness also promotes even cooking. Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer at the lower end of the recommended cooking time.
• What if I don’t have Kalamata olives? As mentioned in the variations, regular black olives can be used as a substitute, though they offer a milder flavor. If you want to maintain a similar briny taste, consider adding a few capers to the filling or sauce.
• Can I brown the chicken before slow cooking? While not required for the slow cooker method, quickly searing the stuffed chicken breasts in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side before placing them in the slow cooker can add a deeper flavor and a lovely golden-brown exterior. This step is optional but can enhance the dish.

If you are looking for an incredibly easy, flavorful, and healthy chicken recipe that practically cooks itself, you will absolutely adore this Crock Pot Greek Stuffed Chicken. It’s a meal that promises to bring Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table with minimal effort.

📋Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Recipe

These Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breasts are an easy and delicious meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors. A healthy and low carb dinner that’s also WW-friendly, these slow cooker stuffed chicken breasts are the ideal ‘set it and forget it’ crock pot meal that’s ready in 4 hours!

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Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Special Diet: Gluten-free, weight watchers

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 199kcal

Author: Terri Gilson

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

on high: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 20 minutes minutes

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Equipment

• ▢
  slow cooker
• ▢
  sharp knife
• ▢
  cutting board

Ingredients

• ▢ 5-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
• ▢ ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled *I use light/low-fat feta cheese
• ▢ 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach leaves (or baby spinach)
• ▢ ¼ cup oil packed sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• ▢ 2 tsps fresh basil
• ▢ 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• ▢ 15 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
• ▢ ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

Garnish

• ▢ whole pitted Kalamata olives
• ▢ fresh basil leaves

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• Combine feta, spinach, lemon zest, basil, sundried tomatoes, chopped olives, and garlic in a large bowl.
• Mix well – set aside.
• Slice each chicken breast in half (but don’t cut all the way through the middle, so it’s butterflied).
• Place chicken under a piece of plastic wrap.
• Using a tenderizer, mallet or back of a skillet, pound breast until about ¼ inch thick. repeat for all pieces
• Lay pounded chicken smooth side down on work surface. Place about 2 tbsps of the spinach mixture on wide end of breast.
• Roll up chicken (see VIDEO). Repeat with remaining chicken, dividing the mix evenly by all the pieces of chicken.
• Place rolled chicken seam side down in crock pot. Top with diced tomatoes (and juice- don’t drain)
• Cover and cook on low for 5.5- 6 hours or high for 4 hours.

Garnish/Serving:

• Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or polenta. Garnish with additional Kalmata olives and basil leaves.
  

Notes

*Please see post contents for important recipe information, substitutions and tips!

VIDEO: How to Roll a Stuffed Chicken Breast

Adapted from: “Crock Stars Slow Cooker favorites” Pg. 40

Nutrition Facts

📋Slow Cooker Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 chicken breast)

Calories 199
Calories from Fat 54

% Daily Value*

Fat 6g9%

Saturated Fat 2g13%

Trans Fat 0.01g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Cholesterol 79mg26%

Sodium 531mg23%

Potassium 759mg22%

Carbohydrates 7g2%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 4g4%

Protein 28g56%

Vitamin A 905IU18%

Vitamin C 12mg15%

Calcium 48mg5%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Nutrition

Serving: 1chicken breast | Calories: 199kcal (10%) | Carbohydrates: 7g (2%) | Protein: 28g (56%) | Fat: 6g (9%) | Saturated Fat: 2g (13%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 79mg (26%) | Sodium: 531mg (23%) | Potassium: 759mg (22%) | Fiber: 2g (8%) | Sugar: 4g (4%) | Vitamin A: 905IU (18%) | Vitamin C: 12mg (15%) | Calcium: 48mg (5%) | Iron: 2mg (11%)

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