Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons capers, drained; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Equipment:; Slow cooker (6-quart capacity recommended); Large skillet (optional for browning the chicken)

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through the house on a busy weekday. Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore has quickly become a beloved staple in my household, and it’s no wonder why. The tender chicken thighs, rich tomato-based sauce, and a medley of vegetables and herbs combine to create a dish that feels like a warm hug.

I first made this dish during a hectic week when I needed something easy yet nourishing. With two active kids and a husband who craves hearty meals, I turned to my trusty slow cooker. I loved how this recipe allowed me to set it and forget it while focusing on family time. When dinner was finally ready, the delighted expressions on my family’s faces were priceless. My kids especially love the savory sauce, which they enjoy spooning over pasta or rice. And my husband? Let’s just say he goes back for seconds every time.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and ease. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling a thousand tasks or someone looking for a stress-free meal, this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore has your back. It’s a little slice of Italy, right in your kitchen, with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Every time I make this, it feels like a mini celebration, and I can’t wait for you to experience the same joy.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! While thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts work just as well. Just be mindful of cooking time to prevent them from drying out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just transfer everything to your slow cooker.

Can I freeze the leftovers? Definitely! This dish freezes beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What sides go well with Chicken Cacciatore? This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even a warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly? Absolutely! The rich, savory flavors are a hit with kids. You can even dice the vegetables smaller if your little ones are picky eaters.

What You Need to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:

Ingredients:

6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

½ cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons capers, drained

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

Slow cooker (6-quart capacity recommended)

Large skillet (optional for browning the chicken)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. If you have time, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.

Layer the Ingredients: Place the browned (or raw) chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Add the onions, garlic, red bell pepper, mushrooms, and capers on top.

Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.

Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot over your favorite side dish.

Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:

Browning is Worth It: While it’s an extra step, browning the chicken first adds depth of flavor.

Customize the Vegetables: Don’t have mushrooms or red bell peppers? Feel free to substitute with zucchini, carrots, or even olives.

Adjust the Spice: If you love a little heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, leave them out.

Double the Batch: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make extra and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

Latest Reviews:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was a lifesaver on a busy night! My kids loved it, and the chicken was so tender.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect comfort food! I served it over pasta, and the whole family raved about it.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really good, but I think I’ll add more garlic next time for extra flavor.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So easy and delicious! I’ll definitely make this again.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasty, but I wish it had a little more spice. Next time, I’ll add more red pepper flakes.”

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