Easy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Discover the comforting and savory delight of this easy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore recipe, perfect for busy weeknights and leisurely weekends alike. Combining tender chicken, rich tomato flavors, and aromatic herbs, this dish offers a symphony of taste with minimal effort. Let your slow cooker handle the magic, while you savor a meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy.

Growing up, my grandmother often prepared her signature chicken cacciatore on Sundays. The tantalizing aroma would fill the house, teasing our taste buds long before we sat down to eat. It was more than just a meal, it was a gathering point for family and stories. I’ve adapted her beloved recipe to a modern slow cooker method, capturing all the delicious nostalgia with a simplified twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for those seeking comfort and convenience. You’ll love the deep, hearty flavors that develop as the chicken slowly cooks with tomatoes and earthy mushrooms. No need for constant attention; just set it and forget it until dinner time. It’s perfect for meal prepping too, providing you with a wholesome dish ready to be served whenever you wish.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need boneless chicken thighs or breasts, providing tender meat that absorbs all the fantastic flavors. Use canned plum tomatoes for a rich base, though fresh tomatoes are a viable substitute. Enhance the dish with fresh herbs if available; dried ones will work too. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, but feel free to switch them out for bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Searing the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side brings out extra flavor.

Step 2

Transfer the seared chicken into your crockpot. Add in sliced onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the pot, creating a bed of vegetables for the chicken to rest on.

Step 3

Pour in your canned plum tomatoes, breaking them slightly with a wooden spoon. Add chicken broth, ensuring there’s enough liquid to cover the ingredients well.

Step 4

Sprinkle in Italian herbs and a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and flavorful.

Step 5

Once cooked, adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to thicken it up slightly.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure they’re completely cooled first. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to regain moisture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a low-carb version, omit the mushrooms and replace them with extra zucchini or spinach. Add olives or capers for a briny kick, or use a splash of white wine for added depth. Vegetarian? Swap chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based adaptation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to mop up the rich sauce or over a bed of spaghetti for an Italian-inspired feast. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or buttery polenta for an elegant touch at your dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot. Simply adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

What other vegetables can I include? Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. They not only add flavor but also bulk up this hearty dish without a lot of extra calories.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all packaged products (broth, canned tomatoes) are labeled accordingly. It’s a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten.

Easy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

This simple and delightful Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is loaded with tender chicken thighs, bell peppers, and mushrooms, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. It's a perfect weeknight meal that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 6 pieces chicken thighs bone-in, skin removed
• ▢ 1 cup onion chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 2 cups bell peppers sliced, mix of red and green
• ▢ 8 oz mushrooms sliced
• ▢ 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, with juice
• ▢ 0.5 cup chicken broth
• ▢ 0.5 cup red wine optional
• ▢ 1 tsp dried basil
• ▢ 1 tsp dried oregano
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 3 tbsp capers drained
• ▢ 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of a large crockpot.
• Add onions, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms over the chicken.
• Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. If using, add red wine as well.
• Sprinkle basil, oregano, salt, and pepper on top. Stir slightly to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
• Stir in capers and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve this cozy dish over spaghetti or any pasta of your choice, and pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.