Description

Craving a hearty, Italian-inspired dish that’s bursting with rustic flavors and requires minimal effort? Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is your answer! This comforting recipe transforms tender chicken thighs into a rich, savory stew, simmered with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and aromatic herbs

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (4, ~1 lb):
- Why it’s important: Juicy, flavorful protein that becomes tender and absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
- Substitutions: Chicken breasts (less juicy, cook on lower end of time), bone-in thighs (increase cooking time slightly), or mushrooms for vegetarian (adjust cooking time to 4–5 hours on low).
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz, undrained):
- Why it’s important: Forms the rich, tangy base of the sauce.
- Substitutions: Fresh diced tomatoes (2 cups), crushed tomatoes, or fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
Bell Pepper (1, sliced, any color):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, colorful texture to the stew.
- Substitutions: Any color bell pepper, roasted red peppers, or zucchini for variety.
Onion (1, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Brings sweet, savory depth to the sauce.
- Substitutions: Yellow or red onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ¾ tsp garlic powder or 1.5 tsp garlic paste.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Provides earthy, Italian herbaceousness.
- Substitutions: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp), dried Italian seasoning, or marjoram.
Dried Basil (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the tomatoes.
- Substitutions: Fresh basil (1 tbsp, added at the end), dried parsley, or thyme.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Red Wine (½ cup, optional):
- Why it’s important: Adds depth and a subtle richness to the sauce.
- Substitutions: Chicken or vegetable broth, grape juice, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Fresh basil, cilantro, or omit.
Cooked Pasta or Polenta (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Soaks up the hearty sauce and completes the meal.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or zucchini noodles for low-carb.

Tip: Use fresh, firm bell peppers and good-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor, and choose a drinkable red wine (if using) to enhance the sauce.

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Add 1 can (14 oz) undrained diced tomatoes, 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 sliced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and ½ cup red wine (if using).
Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is nestled into the vegetables and sauce.
Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (165°F/74°C internally) and the vegetables are softened.
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 3: Serve

Stir the mixture gently to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta (like spaghetti or fettuccine) or creamy polenta, ensuring each portion gets plenty of sauce, vegetables, and chicken.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Tip: Prepare pasta or polenta just before serving to keep it fresh and avoid sogginess. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for 10–15 minutes to reduce.

Assembly

Assembling Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is all about creating a rustic, inviting plate. Here’s how to bring it together:

Choose Your Base: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of cooked pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or gluten-free options) or creamy polenta to soak up the rich sauce. Rice or zucchini noodles work for alternative diets.
Add the Chicken and Sauce: Place a chicken thigh (whole or shredded) on each plate, spooning a generous amount of the tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions over the top.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Presentation Tips:
- Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the hearty sauce and colorful vegetables.
- Arrange the chicken whole for a rustic look, or shred it and mix with the sauce for a cozy presentation.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted zucchini for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Tip: For a family-style presentation, serve the chicken and sauce in a large dish with pasta or polenta on the side, letting everyone customize their plates.