This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. With tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and tasty tomatoes, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, the slow cooker does all the hard work, so you can just relax and enjoy. I love serving this over pasta or rice for a filling meal—easy peasy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless thighs—they stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer breasts for a lighter option, they work too, but watch the cooking time since they can dry out more easily.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mix—red, green, and yellow—adds sweetness and nutrition. If you don’t have all three, feel free to use whatever you have. You can even swap them for zucchini or mushrooms for a different twist!
Crushed Tomatoes: They create the sauce’s base. If you like a chunkier sauce, diced tomatoes are a great substitute. You can also use tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil offer classic Italian flavor. If fresh herbs are available, they can enhance the dish beautifully. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones listed!
How Do You Sear Chicken Properly for the Best Flavor?
Searing the chicken is a key step that makes all the difference. It locks in juices and adds a nice depth to the flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. This helps create a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if needed, so the chicken browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden. You can check by gently lifting the chicken to see the color.
Taking these simple steps will enhance the final dish, giving it a restaurant-quality feel right at home!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Cacciatore takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, allowing flavors to meld beautifully for a comforting meal. Enjoy your day while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds great flavor! Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. SautĂ© them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
4. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker with the chicken. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the oregano, basil, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. If you like, shred the chicken using two forks for bite-sized pieces, then return it to the sauce. Mix gently so the chicken absorbs all that delicious sauce.
7. Serve:
Serve your Chicken Cacciatore hot over cooked pasta or rice for a full meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore! It’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time by about 1-2 hours. However, I recommend thawing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and safety.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic. However, fresh garlic delivers a more vibrant flavor, so it’s worth using if you can!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cacciatore for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can This Recipe Be Made Without Bell Peppers?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can either leave them out or substitute with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrition. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on your choices!
