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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting and easy Italian-inspired dinner featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for hands-off cooking, this hearty dish melds rustic flavors with convenience, ideal for family meals or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4–6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

Vegetables

  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Sauce and Flavorings

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup olives, sliced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup red wine or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Dice the bell peppers, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms to prepare your fresh ingredients.
  2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides. This adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to the dish.
  3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken thighs in the slow cooker, layering the diced bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, olives, and herbs on top. Pour in the red wine or broth and stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
  4. Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and absorb the rich tomato and herb flavors.
  5. Finish and Adjust: After cooking, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce excess liquid before serving.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
  • Searing chicken before slow cooking is optional but enhances flavor and texture.
  • Layer vegetables on the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent overcooking, placing chicken on top for even cooking.
  • Choose high-quality canned diced tomatoes as they significantly impact the sauce’s flavor.
  • Prep ingredients the night before to save time on busy days.
  • Adapt protein choices by swapping chicken thighs for breasts, turkey, or pork.
  • Add vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts for extra texture and variety.
  • For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
  • Serve over pasta, polenta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure broth and canned goods are certified gluten-free if needed.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken cacciatore, Italian, comfort food, slow cooked chicken, easy dinner, gluten free, meal prep

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/slow-cooker-chicken-cacciatore/