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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Description


Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian-inspired comfort food made with tender chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a rich and hearty sauce that coats every bite of juicy chicken. This easy crockpot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup chicken broth

For Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Layer the sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and minced garlic over the chicken.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Pour and Cook

Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Once cooked, gently stir the sauce. If desired, shred the chicken slightly with two forks or leave the pieces whole.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving. Serve hot with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Tips and Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier during long cooking times, but chicken breasts can also be used.
  • For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
  • Add sliced olives for a more traditional Italian flavor.
  • Fresh herbs can be added at the end for extra freshness.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Q&A

Can I freeze Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare all ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

What can I serve with it?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or warm crusty bread are all excellent options.

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 620mg

This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore delivers rich Italian flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal crockpot recipe for a cozy family dinner or weekly meal prep.

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