Description
Ever wondered how to bring the rustic charm of an Italian countryside kitchen to your home without spending hours cooking? Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is your ticket to a hearty, flavor-packed meal that’s as easy as it is delicious! This classic “hunter-style” dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and fragrant herbs
Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (4):
- Why it’s important: Thighs stay juicy and tender during slow cooking, soaking up the sauce’s flavors.
- Substitutions: Chicken breasts work but may be slightly drier. Bone-in thighs or drumsticks are great for extra flavor (adjust cooking time slightly).
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz, undrained):
- Why it’s important: Forms the rich, tangy base of the sauce.
- Substitutions: Fresh diced tomatoes (about 2 cups) or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
- Bell Pepper (1, sliced, any color):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweetness, color, and a slight crunch.
- Substitutions: Use another bell pepper color, mushrooms, or zucchini for variety.
- Onion (1, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Provides a savory, aromatic foundation.
- Substitutions: Red onion or shallots for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the sauce with warm, savory depth.
- Substitutions: 1 tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, Mediterranean flavor.
- Substitutions: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp) or Italian seasoning.
- Dried Basil (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings a sweet, herbaceous note.
- Substitutions: Fresh basil (2 tbsp, added at the end) or thyme.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Red Wine (½ cup, optional):
- Why it’s important: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Substitutions: Chicken or vegetable broth, or grape juice with a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and color.
- Substitutions: Fresh basil, chives, or skip for simplicity.
- Cooked Pasta or Polenta (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Soaks up the delicious sauce and completes the meal.
- Substitutions: Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Trim any excess fat from 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Slice 1 bell pepper and 1 onion into thin strips.
- Mince 3 garlic cloves.
- Tip: Keep veggie slices similar in size for even cooking.
Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add 1 can (14 oz) undrained diced tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, sliced onion, minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and ½ cup red wine (if using).
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated and the veggies are evenly distributed.
- Tip: Nestle the chicken into the sauce to keep it moist during cooking.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Stir halfway through if possible to blend the flavors.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes on high to reduce it.
Step 4: Shred or Serve Whole
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and shred with two forks for a rustic texture, or leave whole for a plated presentation.
- Stir the sauce and veggies in the slow cooker to combine.
- Tip: If shredding, return the chicken to the sauce and mix to coat.
Step 5: Serve
- Spoon the chicken, veggies, and sauce over cooked pasta (like spaghetti or fettuccine) or creamy polenta.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
- Tip: Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for added flavor