Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 900g)
- 1 large onion, chopped (approximately 200g)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped (approximately 300g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (411g)
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained (425g)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (approximately 75g)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (approximately 15g)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano (approximately 15g)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.25ml)
Instructions:
- Lightly brown chicken thighs in olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This step adds depth of flavour. Don't overcrowd the pan; brown in batches if necessary.
- Arrange the chopped onion and bell peppers in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and add the rinsed chickpeas and halved Kalamata olives.
- Stir in the fresh parsley, fresh oregano, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, shred the chicken with two forks before serving.
- Ladle the chicken and vegetable mixture into bowls and serve hot.