why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a simple and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, making it easy to prepare a comforting dinner with minimal effort. It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy tender chicken and vibrant vegetables all in one pot.
how to make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients:
- boneless chicken thighs
- olive oil
- onion, chopped
- bell peppers, chopped
- garlic, minced
- carrots, sliced
- mushrooms, sliced
- canned diced tomatoes
- chicken broth
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- pepper
- fresh basil, for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides and transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same pan, sauté the onion, bell peppers, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms until soft.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
how to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over a bed of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. The rich sauce is perfect for soaking up with bread, making it a great comfort food option.
how to store Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place the Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce.
- Feel free to include other veggies you love, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more herbs for a stronger flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker; this helps the chicken cook evenly.
variation
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. Additionally, make it a vegetarian dish by using chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken, and add more veggies to make it filling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.
What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?
Pasta, rice, or crusty bread are perfect sides. A side salad can also complement the dish well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just turn on the slow cooker in the morning for a delicious dinner later.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides and transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same pan, sauté the onion, bell peppers, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms until soft.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve over a bed of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread on the side.