When the weekend rolls around, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the enticing aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore wafting through my home. This hearty, rustic dish, packed with tender chicken thighs and vibrant vegetables, has been a favorite in my family for years. I discovered it during one of my frantic weekday dinners, and it quickly transformed into a staple that always brings smiles to the table.
Imagine bustling about your day—whether it’s work or family activities—only to return to a bustling kitchen, the tantalizing scent of herbs and simmering tomatoes greeting you at the door. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless charm; it’s perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something delicious without the fuss. Simply searing the chicken, tossing it into the slow cooker with a medley of fresh ingredients, and letting time do the magic makes this dish accessible for every skill level.
Join me in creating this delightful, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to win over the hearts and taste buds of everyone at your dinner table!
Why choose Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Effortless preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can focus on other tasks while this delightful dish cooks on its own.
Hearty and filling: Each serving is packed with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Flavor explosion: A blend of herbs and fresh ingredients creates a rich and savory taste that your family will love.
Versatile dish: Great on its own, over rice, or with your favorite pasta—this recipe adapts to any craving!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
And if you’re looking for more simple yet delicious meals, check out my slow cooker recipes!
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Ingredients
Get ready to make a dish that warms the heart!
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – a juicy choice that stays tender and flavorful as it cooks.
• Salt and black pepper – essential for seasoning, bringing out the best flavors in the chicken.
For the Vegetables
• Olive oil – provides a rich base for sautéing and enhances the overall flavor.
• Small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic, crushed – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• Mushrooms, sliced – contribute earthiness and absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
• Small carrot, finely diced – adds a hint of natural sweetness and color.
• Green bell pepper, finely chopped – gives a fresh crunch and vibrant flavor to the mix.
For the Sauce
• Canned chopped tomatoes in rich tomato sauce – creates a hearty and tangy base for the casserole.
• Dried oregano – a classic herb that’s perfect for enhancing Italian flavors.
• Dried rosemary – infuses a delightful fragrance and depth.
• Dried thyme – adds an aromatic touch that complements the other spices beautifully.
• Dried basil – brings a hint of sweetness and fragrance to the dish.
• Red pepper (chilli) flakes – add just the right amount of heat to kick it up a notch.
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped – brightens up the dish as a garnish with a pop of color.
• Tomato paste – thickens the sauce while deepening the tomato flavor.
• Red wine vinegar – adds acidity to balance the rich ingredients.
• Chicken stock cube – enhances the overall flavor and richness, perfect for a comforting meal.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful journey into the world of home-cooked flavors. Enjoy every moment as it simmers away!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
-
Heat olive oil: Start by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. If your slow cooker has a sauté/sear function, feel free to use that for an easy transition!
-
Season the chicken: Generously season 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides. This ensures every bite is flavorful!
-
Sear the chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Lightly sear each side until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a rich depth of flavor.
-
Transfer to the slow cooker: Place the seared chicken in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, garlic, mushrooms, carrot, green pepper, canned tomatoes, and all the dried herbs.
-
Cook it slow: Set the slow cooker to high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal.
-
Finish with parsley: Once done, stir in a handful of freshly chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and black pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
-
Serve and enjoy!: Your hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is ready to be served! Enjoy the comforting aroma and the smiles around your dinner table.
Optional: Serve it over pasta or rice for a delicious twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Variations
Feel free to personalize this dish to tantalize your taste buds even more!
-
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat levels and spice up your cacciatore.
-
Mushroom Medley: Substitute with a mix of wild mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor profile that enhances the dish’s richness.
-
Whole Grain Boost: Serve over quinoa or farro instead of traditional pasta for a healthy whole grain twist that adds texture and nutty flavor.
-
Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta to keep it light while still enjoying the hearty flavors.
-
Vegetable Wonders: Mix in chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients and greenery.
-
Wine Swap: Replace red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter, richer note that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
-
Herb Variations: Try fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary instead of dried for a vibrant burst of flavor right before serving.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a bit of cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving for a luscious twist that enhances the dish’s comfort factor.
Get creative and enjoy making this recipe your own!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Fridge: Store your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and make sure to leave space for expansion.
Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it up on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover Cacciatore as a filling for stuffed peppers or mix it into a pasta bake for a quick and satisfying meal.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Creating a delicious meal is all about the perfect accompaniments that enhance the full experience of your comfort food feast.
-
Creamy Polenta: Its smooth texture beautifully balances the robust flavors of the chicken cacciatore, providing a comforting base.
-
Garlic Bread: This crispy delight serves as the perfect vessel for soaking up the rich sauce, making every bite unforgettable.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color, complementing the tender chicken beautifully.
-
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing green salad brightens the meal, offering a burst of freshness that contrasts with the hearty cacciatore.
-
Risotto: Creamy and luxurious, risotto enhances the flavors and adds a touch of elegance that will impress your guests.
-
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine enhances the flavors of the dish, allowing the rich ingredients to shine even brighter.
-
Lemon Sorbet: End the meal with something light and refreshing to cleanse the palate after the savory feast.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
-
Perfect Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore to new heights!
-
Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in juice and flavor, creating a golden crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
-
Substitution Friendly: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini or bell peppers add a delightful twist while keeping the dish balanced.
-
Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for an easy, flavorful lunch the following day.
-
Thickening Tip: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it in while cooking on high for 10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning and searing the chicken, chopping the onion, garlic, mushrooms, carrot, and green bell pepper. Store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to eat, simply transfer everything into the slow cooker, add in the canned tomatoes and herbs, and set it to cook. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, just as flavorful and comforting as if you made it fresh!
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is ideal for this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. They remain juicy and tender during the long cooking process, ensuring you get a moist and flavorful dish. I often use this cut for its rich texture that complements the vibrant sauce beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
For storing leftovers, put your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the rest, just gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through—it’s that simple!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore! To do this, first let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to leave some space for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen!
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find that the sauce is a bit too thin, don’t worry! You can thicken it easily. Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this slurry into the sauce while cooking on the high setting for another 10 minutes. This will help achieve that luscious consistency you’re looking for!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If allergies are a concern, remember to check the chicken stock cube and canned tomatoes for any potential allergens. This recipe is versatile—you can substitute the chicken with a plant-based option, like tofu, for a vegetarian version. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly for safety!
How ripe should the vegetables be for this recipe?
When it comes to vegetables, choosing ripe and fresh options will enhance your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. For instance, select bell peppers that are firm and shiny, and tomatoes without dark spots. Fresh ingredients add a burst of flavor that beautifully complements the slow-cooked chicken!
Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore You Need Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Sear chicken in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker and add chopped onions, garlic, mushrooms, carrots, green peppers, canned tomatoes, and all dried herbs.
- Set slow cooker to high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
- Once cooked, stir in freshly chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve and enjoy, optionally over pasta or rice.
