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Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Name: Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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

Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, the warm aroma of savory spices and tender chicken enveloping you like a cozy blanket. This dish, Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore, is exactly the kind of comfort meal that brings the family together and elevates your weekday dinners into cherished memories. Perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked to tender perfection, this recipe effortlessly combines flavors that are simply irresistible.

Whether it’s an ordinary Tuesday or a special gathering, this chicken cacciatore is a go-to dish that you won’t just love; it will be a family favorite that keeps your loved ones coming back for more.

Why Make This Recipe

It is a dish that cooks itself while you go about your day, allowing you to enjoy precious time without the stress of making dinner.
The rich, tomato-based sauce is packed with flavor, making it a great pairing with many sides.

Experience a meal that is both satisfying and uncomplicated to prepare.

Easy Method for Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Creating a stunning Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is not only simple, it’s also a delightful experience full of sensory excitement. Here’s a logical, step-by-step guide that will walk you through the process of crafting this delectable dish at home.

Ingredients

To recreate this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

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

Directions

Prepare and Season Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs or breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Brown the Chicken (Optional)
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side until golden-brown. This step adds significant depth of flavor. Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker. If skipping, place raw chicken directly into the slow cooker.
Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Using the same skillet (with any remaining oil and browned bits), reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced yellow onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Add Mushrooms and Garlic
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and peppers. Continue to sauté for another 3-5 minutes, allowing mushrooms to release moisture and brown slightly. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Deglaze with Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture and deglazing liquid from the skillet into the slow cooker, on top of and around the chicken.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the diced tomatoes (drained as specified). Stir gently to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir again to distribute the herbs and spices.
Initial Seasoning Check and Set
Give a final sprinkle of salt and pepper over the ingredients. Place the lid securely on your slow cooker.
Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using chicken breasts, monitor to prevent overcooking.
Shred and Adjust Seasoning
Once cooked, you can remove the chicken and shred it with two forks before returning it to the slow cooker, or serve the pieces whole. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings with more salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Serve your Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore over your favorite pasta, creamy polenta, rice, or with crusty bread. Enjoy!

Keeping Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore Fresh

Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

To maintain the deliciousness of your chicken cacciatore, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freeze: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the cacciatore for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat: When reheating, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) again for safety.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

When it comes to serving Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore, the possibilities are truly endless. Here are some ideas that will take your meal to the next level:

Over Pasta: Lasagna noodles, fettuccine, or penne allow the sauce to cling beautifully, soaking up every flavor.
With Polenta: For a comforting twist, serve the cacciatore over creamy polenta for a rich and hearty meal.
Accompanied by Rice: White, brown, or even cauliflower rice are excellent options to soak up the sauce’s intense flavor.
Alongside Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of rustic bread for some extra texture and an effective means of capturing every drop of that incredible sauce.
Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a melty mozzarella layer can elevate the dish to gourmet status.

Tips to Make Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They bring a vibrant flavor that can make a great recipe even better.
Don’t Skip Browning: Although optional, browning the chicken adds incredible depth and flavor to the dish. It is worth the extra few minutes.
Enhance the Flavor: For a punch of extra flavor, toss in a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar when you deglaze the skillet.
Adjust Heat: If you enjoy spiciness, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are a couple of ideas:

Meat Alternatives: If chicken isn’t your favorite, pork can also work wonderfully in this recipe. Using boneless pork chops or even beef can create a unique twist on the traditional cacciatore.
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, ensuring you still maintain the steps for browning for added flavor, but you can skip the searing.

FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day before and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs are actually recommended as they stay moist and tender through the slow cooking process.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

For an extra kick, consider the following:
- Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for a hearty, flavorful change.

Q: What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be repurposed into a delicious wrap or served over a salad to make a wholesome next-day lunch.

Nutritional Info

For those watching their calorie intake, here’s a quick overview of the nutritional values per serving (assuming 6 servings):

Calories: 280
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 540mg
Total Carbohydrates: 16g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 32g

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth, flavors, and smiles around the dinner table. With its effortless preparation and scrumptious outcome, it’s the perfect meal for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone looking to indulge in comfort food. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare for a delicious flavor journey that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Enjoy!