Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore is an easy-to-make, slow-cooked Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs in a rich tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this hearty meal requires minimal effort but is packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an ideal comfort food served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Enjoy the savory taste and convenience of this flavorful Crock Pot recipe!
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low
- Total Time: 6.5-7.5 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for searing chicken, optional)
Instructions
- Optional: Sear chicken thighs in olive oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place sliced onions, bell peppers, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add seared or raw chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred or serve the chicken whole, return it to the sauce, and stir to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Optional Step: Searing the chicken before adding to the slow cooker adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
- Spice Level: Adjust crushed red pepper flakes for a mild or spicy version.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a veggie-friendly meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until hot. If frozen, thaw overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is ideal for anyone looking for an effortless yet hearty meal. The slow-cooked chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a savory tomato sauce with a medley of onions, bell peppers, and olives. The combination of garlic, herbs, and red wine creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a truly satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear the chicken thighs or breasts on both sides for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the garlic, onions, and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Transfer the chicken, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, wine (or broth), tomato paste, olives, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks, or serve the pieces whole, depending on your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 10 minutes of active prep time, with 4-6 hours of cooking time on low in the crockpot.
Variations
- Use different chicken cuts: You can use bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks in place of thighs. Just ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
- Add vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped fresh chilies for a spicier kick.
- Serve with pasta: Chicken cacciatore is delicious served over pasta, polenta, or rice. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Make it without wine: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken broth or water for a milder flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and sauce in a pot on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to cool it down completely before freezing.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but bone-in chicken tends to retain more flavor and moisture during cooking.
2. Can I make Chicken Cacciatore without wine?
Absolutely! You can replace the wine with chicken broth or even water for a slightly lighter dish.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Cacciatore can be made ahead of time. The flavors actually improve as it sits, so it’s a great make-ahead meal. Just refrigerate and reheat before serving.
5. How do I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the sauce.
6. Can I make this without olives?
Yes, you can omit the olives if you don’t like them. You can also substitute them with capers for a similar briny flavor.
7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes. You may need to cook them down a bit longer to create a rich sauce.
8. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
9. What sides go well with Chicken Cacciatore?
Chicken Cacciatore pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, polenta, or mashed potatoes. It’s also great with a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
10. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) or when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore is a perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is incredibly tender, and the rich, savory sauce is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the comfort of a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort
