Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings a taste of Italian home cooking to your table. This comforting meal features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, mushrooms, and a blend of aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether served over whole wheat pasta, brown rice, or even zucchini noodles, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll want to make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. Second, the dish is versatile, allowing you to choose your favorite side, whether it’s pasta, rice, or even a savory polenta. Additionally, this recipe is healthy and packed with nutrients thanks to the vegetables and lean chicken. Finally, it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, making it a practical choice for any home cook.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil plus 2 teaspoons, divided
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar plus ½ teaspoon, divided
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
• 8 ounces sliced baby bella cremini mushrooms
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• FOR SERVING: Whole wheat pasta, brown rice, polenta, zucchini noodles, or baked and shredded spaghetti squash
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and then brown it on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to your slow cooker.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional minute.

3. Prepare the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.

4. Slow Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded.

5. Serve: Serve the chicken cacciatore over your choice of side dish and garnish with chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

When serving Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, the options are endless! You can use whole wheat pasta, brown rice, polenta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Each side adds its unique texture and flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. You can even offer a slice of crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cacciatore. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

• Brown the Chicken Well: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Don’t skip this step!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to fit your taste preferences. A bit of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: For best results, cook on the low setting. Longer cooking times make for the most tender chicken.

Variations

While the classic chicken cacciatore recipe is delightful, you can mix things up to suit your tastes. Consider using different types of chicken, such as thighs for a richer flavor. You can also add more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchinis, or use a combination of different mushrooms. For a twist, consider adding olives or artichokes to give it an extra Mediterranean flair. If you’re looking for a thicker sauce, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water toward the end of cooking.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to extend the cooking time, as it will take longer to reach the safe cooking temperature.

Q2: Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
A2: While it’s not strictly necessary, browning the chicken adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. It enhances the overall taste and texture of the final meal.

Q3: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A3: Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, place it in the slow cooker, and then cook it later in the day. Just make sure to keep the chicken and vegetables refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

Q4: What sides pair well with Chicken Cacciatore?
A4: Whole wheat pasta, brown rice, polenta, or spiralized zucchini noodles are all excellent choices. You can also serve it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. Enjoy this delightful recipe knowing that it combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition perfectly.