Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 650 mg
Why Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful one-pot meal that combines the tender, juicy chicken with the fresh, vibrant flavors of bell peppers, onions, and rich tomatoes. This comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights, special family gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty. Not only is it easy to prepare, but this dish also fills your home with the mouthwatering aroma of Italian cooking, making it feel cozy and inviting.
The best part? By using your slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides, just for about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a superb depth of flavor to your chicken and creates a gorgeous golden crust.
### Step 2: Mixing
Once browned, transfer the chicken thighs to your slow cooker. Layer on the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Pour the can of crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the top, and sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
### Step 3: Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become incredibly tender, easily falling off the bone, while merging with the sauce and vegetables to create a delectable dish.
### Step 4: Finishing
When it’s time to serve, check that your chicken is fully cooked and tender. Dish out generously onto plates or bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over a bed of pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, enjoy it on a bed of cooked quinoa or alongside a fresh green salad. This dish pairs wonderfully with a robust red wine, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner night.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well! Freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of red wine along with the chicken broth.
- Different types of chicken can be substituted; chicken breasts work as well but may cook a bit faster.
- Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and capers for a brinier flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Include sliced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to add a touch of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or portobello mushrooms for a meatless meal that still packs flavor and heartiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster than thighs. Be sure to check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high.
Q2: Is there a way to make this dish in less time?
If you’re short on time, you can use the high setting cooking for 3-4 hours. The flavors will still meld beautifully, but the meat may be slightly less tender.
Q3: What can I use instead of crushed tomatoes?
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. Adjust the seasoning accordingly if you’re using sauce as it might be seasoned.
Q4: How can I make this dish thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce towards the end.
Q5: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach to the mix for extra nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is not only an easy meal to prepare, but it’s also a comforting dish that the whole family will love. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it’s perfect for any occasion, be it a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering. Don’t hesitate to try this scrumptious recipe – you might just find your new favorite dinner! Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- Total Time: 405 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken with fresh bell peppers, onions, and rich tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides for 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Layer with sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Check that chicken is tender, then serve garnished with parsley.
Notes
Great served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 390 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
