Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of tender chicken simmering with fresh vegetables and a rich tomato sauce. That’s the magic of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. This Italian-inspired dish is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. You can effortlessly combine wholesome ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you focus on other activities.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
You will quickly fall in love with this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore for many reasons. First, it is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of fresh veggies, aromatic spices, and herbs. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors, resulting in a tender and moist dish that melts in your mouth. Second, it’s a straightforward recipe requiring minimal prep time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a wholesome meal cooking away while you attend to other tasks or simply relax. This recipe also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Lastly, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
To kick off your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, you’ll want to prepare your chicken first. Start by patting dry the chicken thighs or breasts with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place your chicken pieces in the skillet and brown them for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side. This step enhances the flavor and gives the chicken a lovely golden color.
After browning your chicken, move it to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until they are slightly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one additional minute, allowing it to become aromatic.
Now, it’s time to deglaze the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan. This not only adds flavor but also ensures you don’t waste any delicious remnants. Let the mixture simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer it over to the slow cooker, layering it on top of the chicken.
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and the drained diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you used them. Taste your mixture and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it if you desire. You can leave it whole, too, based on your preference. The final step is to serve it over your choice of pasta, rice, or perhaps alongside a crusty piece of bread. Enjoy the rustic goodness this dish brings to your table!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
When the slow cooker finishes its work, you will have a hearty and inviting meal ready to serve. One of the simplest and most common ways to enjoy chicken cacciatore is over a bed of pasta. The richness of the sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a deliciously satisfying dish. You can choose traditional pasta varieties such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne.
If you prefer a lighter option, consider serving the chicken cacciatore over a bed of white or brown rice. This pairing allows the tender chicken and flavorful sauce to stand out while providing a wholesome base. Alternatively, if you’re after a more rustic approach, pairing it with crusty bread is an excellent choice. A good loaf of baguette or Italian bread will be perfect for soaking up all the delightful sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a drop.
You can also garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor and elegance. Feel free to serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. With everything in place, sit back, relax, and enjoy this delightful dish your slow cooker has prepared for you.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
For the best results with your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the Right Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe, you can also use chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Thighs generally yield a more tender result, but both choices can work well.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs. The flavor and aroma they bring to the dish are unmatched and will elevate your cacciatore.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables in the skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish. This step creates depth, so try not to skip it.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a mild dish, keep the red pepper flakes optional. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add a bit more.
- Cook Time: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker. If using an older model, keep an eye on the cooking process to avoid overcooking or drying out the chicken.
- Customization: This recipe is very adaptable. Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or olives, for an even more colorful and flavorful dish.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Storing your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore correctly is essential to keep the flavors intact. Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store the cacciatore in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or gently on the stove until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken cacciatore. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
One of the great things about Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is its versatility. Here are a few variations you might consider to keep things interesting:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or cauliflower along with beans for added protein. This option maintains the traditional flavor while accommodating vegetarian diets.
- Spicy Cacciatore: For those who love a bit of heat, include more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also spice it up by adding sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil and parsley provide a freshness that can brighten the dish, or try thyme and rosemary for a more robust flavor profile.
- Adding More Protein: You can mix in Italian sausage or even shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an added twist. Make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Alternate Sauces: Experiment with different styles of sauce. Swap in a marinara sauce or use a spicy arrabbiata sauce to give the dish an unexpected yet delightful flair.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Can I use frozen chicken in this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
How long does it take to cook chicken cacciatore in a slow cooker?
Cook your chicken cacciatore on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken cacciatore?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad.
Can I make chicken cacciatore ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Is it possible to double this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the ingredients without overflowing.
Embrace the comforting vibes and flavors of this incredible Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, and watch as it becomes a staple in your meal planning! Enjoy every bite.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Add for heat.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place chicken in the skillet and brown for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
- Move the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until they are slightly browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for one additional minute until aromatic.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits, then let simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker over the chicken.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred if desired. It can also be served whole.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, and garnish with parsley or cheese if desired.
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