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–+ servings
Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore 1

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

This slow cooker revelation transforms a classic Italian dish into an accessible weeknight dinner that doesn't compromise on taste or tradition. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting meal that's perfect for any season.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot/Slow Cooker
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs remain more tender
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 bell peppers red and yellow for color, sliced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry red wine for more authentic flavor
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 2 bay leaves

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives pitted and halved, optional
  • 2 tablespoons capers drained, optional
  • fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. If time permits, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
  • In your crockpot, layer the sliced onions at the bottom. Add the bell peppers, mushrooms, and minced garlic, distributing them evenly.
  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable layer in a single layer.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth (or wine), tomato paste, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
  • Add the bay leaves, cover the crockpot, and set it to cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, add the olives and capers if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

This dish freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months, making it ideal for meal prep. The flavors actually intensify after 24 hours in the refrigerator.
For a lower-carb version, serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
If your sauce is too watery, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate, or mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir this slurry into the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSodium: 580mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword Chicken Cacciatore, Crockpot Chicken, Slow Cooker Italian, Chicken Thighs
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