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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

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4.3 from 71 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 59 minutes prep + cook time makes approx 4 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 5
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a hearty and flavorful Italian classic made easy with the convenience of a slow cooker. Tender bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs simmer in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and Italian herbs, resulting in a comforting and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The slow cooking process infuses deep flavors and creates melt-in-your-mouth chicken without much hands-on effort.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Vegetables

  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor before cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a deeper flavor and richer color to the finished dish.
  3. Add Vegetables: Place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic into the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a flavorful base for the chicken to rest on.
  4. Layer the Chicken: Arrange the seared chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture inside the slow cooker, ensuring even layering.
  5. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine all the flavors into a cohesive sauce.
  6. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Carefully pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is well covered and immersed in the sauce.
  7. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
  8. Check Doneness: Confirm the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should easily pull apart with a fork.
  9. Shred Chicken (Optional): For easier serving and a more rustic texture, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it into the sauce and vegetables.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish just before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor and appealing color contrast.

Notes

  • Searing the chicken is optional but recommended for added flavor; you can skip this step to save time.
  • Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and juiciness; skin can be removed after cooking if preferred.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
  • This dish pairs well with pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

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