As the gentle hum of the slow cooker fills my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the comforting warmth it radiates. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, a dish that effortlessly weaves together tender chicken thighs, vibrant tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables into a hearty Italian comfort. What I love most about this recipe is its ability to adapt to seasonal ingredients and family favorites, making it versatile for every occasion. Plus, with minimal prep time, it’s perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you crave something wholesome yet effortless. Are you ready to create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the cozy world of Chicken Cacciatore! Why is Chicken Cacciatore a must-try? Versatile for all tastes: This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore can easily adapt to your family’s preferences, allowing for seasonal vegetables or even a meat alternative, making it perfect for everyone around the table. Effortless prep time: With minimal chopping and no need for browning, this recipe is both time-saving and straightforward, perfect for those busy weeknights. Hearty and comforting: Filled with tender chicken and robust tomato flavors, it brings warmth to any meal, reminiscent of an Italian home-cooked favorite. Crowd-pleasing appeal: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish transforms any gathering into a special occasion. Pair it with a simple green salad for an effortless yet satisfying feast! Make-ahead perfection: Leftovers keep well in the fridge, ready for lunches or a quick dinner later in the week. It also Freezes beautifully for an easy meal anytime! Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Ingredients For the Sauce • Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes – Adds a base of flavor and acidity; you can use regular diced tomatoes as a substitution. • Tomato Paste – Contributes a rich tomato flavor and natural sweetness; no substitutes are necessary. • Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and depth to the sauce; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option. • Italian Seasoning – Delivers a blend of herbs for authentic taste; fresh or other dried herbs can be used as alternatives. • Fresh Rosemary – Imparts aromatic flavor; can substitute with thyme if unavailable. • Minced Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; use garlic powder as a substitute, though fresh is preferred. • Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to taste. • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a gentle heat; omit for a milder dish or increase for more spice. For the Vegetables • Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with yellow or green bell pepper if desired. • Onion – Provides foundational flavor; any onion variety works, with shallots as a nice alternative. • Sliced Mushrooms – Contributes to a hearty texture; swap for any type of mushrooms based on preference. For the Chicken • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein source, ensuring tenderness; breasts can be used but may require a shorter cooking time. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by preparing your slow cooker. In the base, combine one can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste, and a cup of chicken broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and fresh rosemary, followed by minced garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these ingredients well until evenly combined, creating a fragrant sauce that forms the heart of your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. Step 2: Add Vegetables & Chicken Next, toss in chopped red bell pepper, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker, layering them over the sauce. Gently nestle the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the mix, ensuring they are well-coated with the flavorful sauce. Close the lid, and give the ingredients a subtle stir to combine everything harmoniously, ensuring the chicken will soak up all those delicious flavors. Step 3: Set Cooker With all the ingredients beautifully arranged, set your slow cooker to high heat for 3 to 4 hours or low heat for 7 to 8 hours. As it cooks, the chicken will become tender, and the vegetables soft, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Keep an eye on the clock, and when the chicken shreds easily with a fork, you’ll know it’s done and ready for the next step. Step 4: Thicken Sauce Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board to shred it. To thicken the remaining sauce, transfer it to a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until it reduces slightly, enhancing the flavors for your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. This will create a hearty base that beautifully clings to the chicken. Step 5: Finish Dish Finally, return the shredded chicken to the thickened sauce, mixing everything together until well combined. This will ensure every bite of chicken is infused with that lovely tomato and herb flavor. Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over cooked pasta, creamy risotto, or alongside fulfilling polenta for a complete and satisfying meal that warms the soul. Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce by combining the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the fridge. Additionally, chop your vegetables and store them separately, which you can do a day ahead for a quick assembly. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the sauce and veggies to the slow cooker with the chicken and set it to cook. You’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without the last-minute fuss, making busy weeknights so much easier with just a bit of preparation! Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Browning Benefits: Sear the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the overall flavor and adds a delightful texture to your dish. Timing Matters: Adjust cooking times based on the cut of chicken. Breasts will cook faster than thighs, so keep an eye on them to prevent drying out. Thickening Tricks: If your sauce isn’t as thick as you preferred, allow it to simmer in a saucepan for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step makes for a more luscious finish in your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. Veggie Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots. They not only enhance nutrition but also add vibrant colors and textures to the dish. Flavor Check: Taste your sauce before serving, adjusting the salt or red pepper flakes according to your family’s heat preference to ensure everyone enjoys it. Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Variations Feel free to personalize this recipe to match your family’s tastes and pantry staples, creating a unique dish every time! Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free options or serve over zucchini noodles for a lighter meal. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken thighs with hearty chickpeas or lentils, ensuring a protein-packed vegetarian version. Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick! The warmth intertwines beautifully with the savory sauce. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano instead of rosemary for a different aromatic flair. Mushroom Medley: Mix in a variety of mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for added texture and umami goodness. Seasonal Boost: In the fall, toss in diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a sweet and comforting twist. Flavor Enhancer: A splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the sauce, adding depth and a touch of sweetness. Accompaniment Options: Serve over creamy polenta or with warm crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Each variation offers exciting new flavors and textures, making your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore a family favorite every time! For another delightful dish, check out our Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken. What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore To create a memorable meal that accents the rich flavors of this Italian classic, consider these delightful pairings. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up the savory sauce, enhancing your dining experience. A warm slice on the side is just irresistible! Creamy Polenta: This dish’s smooth, velvety texture complements the heartiness of the cacciatore. Polenta acts as a wonderful base, soaking up all those wonderful tomato and herb flavors. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus adds a crunchy freshness to your meal. The slight caramelization elevates the dish with added sweetness and flavor. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast and cuts through the richness of the cacciatore. The tanginess refreshes your palate between bites. Risotto: Silky risotto, especially with a hint of parmesan, harmonizes beautifully with the tender chicken and robust sauce. It adds a luxurious feel to your meal. Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese perfectly complements the dish’s savory depth while enhancing the overall experience. Dessert Option: Finish off with a classic Tiramisu. The coffee and cocoa flavors balance the richness of the meal, providing an indulgent ending you’ll love. How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Always allow it to cool before sealing to retain freshness. Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the cacciatore into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally for even warming. Airtight Tips: Ensure containers are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, maintaining the delicious flavor and texture of your cherished chicken cacciatore. Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe FAQs What type of tomatoes should I use for the sauce? Absolutely, fire-roasted diced tomatoes are my go-to for this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore! They bring a wonderful depth of flavor, but if you can’t find them, regular diced tomatoes will work just fine. Look for those without added sugar for the best result. How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last? You can store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. To keep it fresh, let it cool down a bit before sealing the containers. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, and how do I do it? Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Portion your chicken cacciatore into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. It’s super simple! What can I do if my sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, remove the chicken once it’s cooked, and let the sauce simmer uncovered in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes. This process concentrates the flavors and creates a hearty sauce that sticks beautifully to the chicken. Is there a way to adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! To make the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore gluten-free, simply use a certified gluten-free chicken broth. For a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like eggplant or use a meat substitute. Always feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your family’s dietary needs! Tender Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore for Cozy Evenings Enjoy this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, a comforting Italian dish with tender chicken, tomatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1 can Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes2 tablespoons Tomato Paste1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian option1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh or other dried herbs as alternatives2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary Can substitute with thyme4 cloves Minced Garlic Use garlic powder as a substitute if needed1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Omit for milder dish or increase for more spiceFor the Vegetables1 large Red Bell Pepper Substitute with yellow or green if desired1 medium Onion Any onion variety works8 ounces Sliced Mushrooms Swap for any type of mushrooms based on preferenceFor the Chicken2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Breasts can be used but may require a shorter cooking time Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by preparing your slow cooker. In the base, combine one can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste, and a cup of chicken broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and fresh rosemary, followed by minced garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these ingredients well until evenly combined.Next, toss in chopped red bell pepper, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker, layering them over the sauce. Gently nestle the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the mix. Close the lid and give a subtle stir to combine everything harmoniously.Set your slow cooker to high heat for 3 to 4 hours or low heat for 7 to 8 hours. When the chicken shreds easily with a fork, it’s done.Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken to shred it. To thicken the remaining sauce, transfer it to a saucepan over medium heat and allow it to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until it reduces slightly.Return the shredded chicken to the thickened sauce and mix together until well combined. Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over cooked pasta, creamy risotto, or alongside fulfilling polenta. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg NotesFor enhanced flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs before adding to the slow cooker. Adjust cooking times based on your chicken cut and add extra veggies for more texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
