Mediterranean Slow Cooker Fig Jam & Cream Cheese Chicken
This Mediterranean Slow Cooker Fig Jam & Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of recipe that feels special without asking much from you. It blends sweet figs, savory chicken, and a creamy finish into a dish that’s rich, balanced, and quietly impressive. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, gently tenderizing the chicken while allowing the flavors to meld into a silky, flavorful sauce.
The sweetness of fig jam pairs beautifully with Mediterranean seasonings and a touch of acidity, while cream cheese adds body and smoothness without overpowering the dish. It’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or even entertaining when you want something comforting but a little unexpected. Serve it with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables and you have a meal that feels thoughtful and complete.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Slow cook time: 4 hours on low or 2½–3 hours on high
Finishing time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 4 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: 2 lb
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Fig jam: ¾ cup
Cream cheese: 8 oz, cubed and softened
Chicken broth: ½ cup
Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: ½ teaspoon
Salt: ¾ teaspoon, or to taste
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Fresh parsley or thyme: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with olive oil or cooking spray.
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Arrange the seasoned chicken over the onion mixture in an even layer.
In a bowl, whisk together the fig jam, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar until smooth.
Pour the fig mixture evenly over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for about 2½–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
About 15 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese cubes to the slow cooker.
Cover again and allow the cream cheese to melt, then gently stir to create a creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Tips
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work well too.
Use good-quality fig jam for the best flavor balance.
Don’t overcook, as chicken can dry out if left too long.
Add cream cheese near the end to prevent curdling.
Stir gently to keep the chicken pieces intact.
If sauce is thin, leave the lid off for 10 minutes to thicken.
Taste before adding extra salt since fig jam can vary in sweetness.
Fresh herbs added at the end brighten the dish.
Serve over grains to soak up the sauce.
Let the dish rest briefly before serving for best texture.
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms for extra depth.
Use goat cheese instead of cream cheese for tang.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
Replace balsamic vinegar with lemon juice for freshness.
Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor.
Add chopped dried figs for more texture.
Stir in spinach at the end for added greens.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based cream cheese.
Add olives for a savory Mediterranean note.
Turn leftovers into wraps or flatbread fillings.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze without cream cheese for best texture, then add later.
Is this recipe sweet?
It’s gently sweet, balanced by savory and tangy flavors.
Can I use homemade fig jam?
Absolutely, it works beautifully.
What can I serve with this?
Rice, couscous, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s better to thaw first for even cooking.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Leave the lid off briefly or stir in a little cornstarch slurry.
Can I cook it longer on low?
Avoid exceeding 4–5 hours to prevent dry chicken.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting.
Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Sugar: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Slow Cooker Fig Jam & Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple recipe with standout flavor. The slow cooker keeps things effortless, while the sweet and savory sauce turns everyday chicken into something memorable. It’s comforting, flexible, and easy to serve, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and relaxed gatherings. Once you try it, it’s likely to earn a regular spot in your meal rotation.