Go Back
–+ servings
Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore 1

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

This Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore transforms a labor-intensive Italian classic into an effortless, nutritious meal perfect for busy lifestyles. With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, you'll create a protein-rich, vegetable-packed dish that's Whole30-compliant and doesn't sacrifice authentic Italian flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker/Crockpot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 bell peppers red and yellow, sliced
  • 8 oz baby bella mushrooms quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes no sugar added
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth low sodium
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped, for garnish
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. If time allows, let them sit for 15 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
  • Add olive oil to the bottom of your crockpot, then create a bed of sliced onions. Layer mushrooms next.
  • Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable bed. Avoid overlapping the pieces too much for even cooking.
  • Scatter bell peppers and minced garlic over the chicken.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture evenly over everything in the crockpot. Add bay leaves.
  • Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F and can be easily shredded with two forks.
  • For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Remove bay leaves. If desired, shred the chicken using two forks, or leave whole for a more traditional presentation.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil just before serving.

Notes

Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months. Flavors actually improve after 24 hours.
Substitution Tips:
  • For a lower carb version, increase mushrooms and decrease onions
  • Replace chicken thighs with turkey thighs for less fat
  • Use zucchini instead of bell peppers for an even lower-carb option
Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve over zucchini noodles for a Whole30 compliant meal
  • Pair with cauliflower rice for added volume without excess calories
  • Add a simple arugula salad with lemon juice and olive oil for brightness

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 32gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 580mgPotassium: 820mgFiber: 3gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 65mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Chicken Cacciatore, Slow Cooker Chicken, Whole30 Chicken, Crockpot Italian Chicken
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!