Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide to making delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore! This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and herbs, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home. Let’s dive into the world of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore and learn how to create this satisfying dish with ease.
Why Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a Must-Try
There are several reasons why Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a favorite among home cooks:
1. It requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
2. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.
3. It can easily feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers for the next day.
4. The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and vibrant vegetables creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients to start preparing this delectable Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and place them in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, red wine, oregano, and basil.
4. Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
6. Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore hot over cooked pasta or rice. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread and a glass of red wine.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
– For a lighter version, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
– Add mushrooms or olives for extra depth of flavor.
– Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to suit your taste preferences.
– If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Searing the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker can enhance the flavor of the dish.
2. Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
3. Adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure the flavors are well-balanced.
4. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future enjoyment.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in chicken pieces can add even more flavor to the dish.
Q: Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
A: While browning the chicken is optional, it can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Q: Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore without wine?
A: Yes, you can omit the wine or substitute it with additional chicken broth.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a kick of heat.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this hearty dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore!
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and herbs. This flavorful and comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, red wine, oregano, and basil.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore hot over cooked pasta or rice. Enjoy!
