Slow-Cooker Mediterranean Diet Stew Recipe

 

Slow-Cooker Mediterranean Diet Stew Recipe

This Slow-Cooker Mediterranean Diet Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly day. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delicious meal rich in nutrients. The best part is how easy it is to make. You need a few minutes to prepare, and then the slow cooker does the rest. This recipe is also flexible, so you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Why You'll Love This

You'll love this Slow-Cooker Mediterranean Diet Stew recipe because it's a simple and tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal. The slow cooker handles all the work, resulting in a tender stew great for a weeknight dinner. Plus, the Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, so you can feel good about what you're eating.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 4-6 people

Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

·       1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts 

·       1 onion, chopped. 

·       3 cloves garlic, minced. 

·       1 red bell pepper, chopped. 

·       1 can of diced tomatoes 

·       1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed. 

·       1 cup of chicken broth 

·       1 tablespoon olive oil 

·       1 teaspoon dried oregano 

·       1 teaspoon paprika 

·       Salt and pepper, to taste 

·       Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 

Tools 

·       Slow cooker 

·       Cutting board 

·       Knife 

·       Measuring cups and spoons 

Directions 

Step 1

Prepare the Ingredients 

1. Chop the onion and red bell pepper. 

2. Mince the garlic. 

3. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. 

Step 2

Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker 

1. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. 

2. Stir to combine. 

Step 3

Cook the Stew 

1. Cook the stew on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. 

2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. 

Step 4

Serve the Stew 

1. Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. 

2. Pair it with crusty bread or serve it over rice or quinoa. 

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving) 

v  Calories: 350-400 

v  Protein: 30-35g 

v  Fat: 15-20g 

v  Carbohydrates: 20-25g 

Serve the stew with whole-grain bread or a green salad for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy it over rice or quinoa for a filling option.

Tips and Variations 

·       Use leftover chicken or turkey for a quick and tasty twist. 

·       Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost nutrition. 

·       Top the stew with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor. 

·       Try different spices like cumin or coriander for a unique taste. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make this stew ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare the stew in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later. 

2. What type of chicken can I use? 

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. 

3. Can I customize the recipe with other ingredients? 

Yes, you can change the ingredients to match your taste and dietary needs. 

4. Can I serve this stew as the main course? 

Yes, this stew works well as a main dish, especially with whole-grain bread or a green salad. 

5. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? 

Yes, you can cook this recipe in an Instant Pot. Just cook for 10-15 minutes. 

6. Can I freeze this stew? 

Yes, you can freeze this stew for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.