Description
Chicken Cacciatore in a Slow Cooker
Ingredients
4 bone-in chicken thighs (or 2 lbs chicken breast)
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving)
Directions
Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms over the chicken.
In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, red wine (if using), and red pepper flakes. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred the chicken or leave it whole, depending on preference. Serve the cacciatore over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, season the chicken thighs directly with the salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Place them in the bottom of your slow cooker to create a flavorful base. Next, layer the sliced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms evenly over the chicken. In a separate mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, chicken broth, red wine (if using), and red pepper flakes until the tomato paste is fully incorporated. Carefully pour this sauce mixture over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring it seeps down into the layers. Do not stir. Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The dish is done when the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender. For serving, you can shred the chicken directly in the pot with two forks or serve the thighs whole.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty cacciatore is incredibly versatile. For a classic Italian presentation, serve it over a bed of pappardelle pasta, polenta, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. It’s equally delicious with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. For a lower-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice. Don’t forget the final flourish: a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. A little grated Parmesan cheese on top is also highly recommended.
How-to Summary
In short: Season chicken and place in slow cooker. Layer vegetables on top. Whisk sauce ingredients and pour over everything. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Serve over your chosen base and garnish with fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts? Yes, but they cook faster and can dry out. Use 2 lbs of breasts and check at 3 hours on LOW or 1.5 hours on HIGH. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
What can I substitute for the red wine? Simply omit it and use an additional 1/2 cup of chicken broth. For depth of flavor, a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar mixed into the broth is an excellent non-alcoholic alternative.
Can I prepare this the night before? Absolutely. Assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the cold insert into the base and start cooking, adding 30-60 minutes to the cook time.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin? After cooking, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the hot cacciatore, cover, and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Is it safe to cook raw chicken directly in the slow cooker? Yes, the slow cooker reaches a safe temperature to cook chicken thoroughly. For best food safety, ensure your chicken is fully thawed before adding and avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the slow cooker: Do not exceed 2/3 full to ensure even and safe cooking.
- Lifting the lid frequently: This releases heat and steam, significantly increasing cooking time.
- Adding dairy too early: Ingredients like cream or cheese should only be stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Using frozen chicken: This can keep the food in the “danger zone” too long. Always thaw chicken completely first.
- Underseasoning: Slow cooking can mute flavors. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs at the end before serving.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, delivering deep, comforting Italian flavors with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly tender, saucy dish every time. Its flexibility in ingredients and serving options makes it a reliable staple for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give this recipe a try for a delicious, hands-off dinner that truly tastes like it simmered all day.