Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting and flavorful Italian dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe allows the slow cooker to work its magic, melding the ingredients together for an unforgettable meal. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking approach, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic dish without the fuss.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This crockpot chicken cacciatore recipe is a favorite for many reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply irresistible; the combination of succulent chicken, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all simmered in a savory tomato sauce, creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Second, the ease of cooking is unmatched. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its thing! Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile, fitting well into a variety of dietary lifestyles, making it a fantastic option for families with diverse tastes.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. They hold up well in the slow cooker and become incredibly tender.
- Sauté Vegetables First: If you have a bit more time, consider sautéing your onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances their flavors, giving your dish an extra depth.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley added at the end of cooking can brighten the dish and elevate its flavor.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Make Ahead Tips
To make this crockpot chicken cacciatore even easier, consider prepping your vegetables and chicken the night before. Simply chop the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also mix the spices together in a bowl so that they’re ready to go when you start cooking. This dish stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Try using turkey, pork, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add in seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this dish on the stovetop or in the oven; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How to Serve
Serve your crockpot chicken cacciatore over a bed of creamy polenta, rice, or pasta to soak up all the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an added touch of color and flavor. For a rustic presentation, serve it in a shallow bowl with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your chicken cacciatore with a robust red wine like Chianti or a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon works beautifully. For sides, consider a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement the meal, and finish off with a light dessert like panna cotta or tiramisu for an authentic Italian experience.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken cacciatore in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: A standard slow cooker will work perfectly for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can be used for stovetop cooking.
- Sauté Pan: If you choose to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables beforehand, a large sauté pan is necessary.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For dairy-free options, skip any cheese garnishes and ensure all sauces and broths are free from dairy. Gluten-free eaters can enjoy this dish as it is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check ingredient labels.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter flavor. In the fall, consider adding seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or carrots to the mix. For winter, frozen vegetables can be a great substitute when fresh options are limited.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless chicken?: Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but it may cook faster; check for doneness earlier.
- How can I thicken the sauce?: You can thicken the sauce by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Can I add wine?: Absolutely! A splash of red wine can elevate the flavors even more; just reduce the amount of broth slightly.
How To Make crockpot chicken cacciatore recipe
Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting and flavorful Italian dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and pepper. In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to the crockpot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onions, sliced bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sautéed vegetables over the chicken in the crockpot. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently to combine.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve over pasta, rice, or polenta, and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 388Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 186mgSodium 752mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 36g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot chicken cacciatore is a fantastic dish that not only brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your home but also offers the convenience and ease of slow-cooked meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its robust flavors and delightful aromas. Dive into this dish, and let each bite transport you to a cozy Italian kitchen!