Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a tasty Italian dish great for weeknights or special events. It needs just 15 minutes of prep. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs.
The dish mixes tender chicken with a rich tomato sauce, veggies, and Italian herbs. It’s all slow-cooked in a crockpot.
If you love Italian comfort food or want an easy slow cooker recipe, try this Chicken Cacciatore. It’s full of flavor and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.
Contents
Introduction to Classic Italian Comfort Food
Chicken Cacciatore, or “hunter’s chicken,” has been loved for centuries. It comes from the 15th century and is a key part of Italian cooking. Today, it’s a favorite comfort food globally.
Origins of Chicken Cacciatore
In central Italy, hunters first made Chicken Cacciatore. It’s cooked with chicken thighs, onions, tomatoes, herbs, and wine. This mix creates a flavorful stew. Now, it’s a beloved dish in Italy, celebrated on October 15th.
Why Slow Cooking Makes it Better
Slow cooking is perfect for Chicken Cacciatore. It lets the flavors blend and the chicken get tender. This method is easy and quick, yet the dish tastes like it simmered all day.
“Chicken Cacciatore is a true masterpiece of Italian cuisine, blending the hearty flavors of the hunt with the comforting warmth of a slow-cooked meal.”
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
Making a classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore needs the right ingredients. These add rich, bold flavors to the dish. At its core are Italian seasonings, fresh vegetables, and balsamic vinegar.
The dish starts with chicken thighs or breasts, browned to perfection. Then, it’s slow-cooked. Garlic, onions, and bell peppers add depth. Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor. Crushed tomatoes and balsamic vinegar make the sauce tangy.
No Chicken Cacciatore is complete without Italian seasoning. This blend of herbs, like oregano, basil, and rosemary, captures the Mediterranean’s essence.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts | 6 pieces |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 cloves, minced |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1 cup |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 28-ounce can |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Bell Pepper, diced | 1 large |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 8 ounces |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
By mixing Italian seasonings, fresh vegetables, and balsamic vinegar, you get a dish full of authentic flavor. It’s like a trip to Italy with every bite.
Preparation and Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, you need some basic kitchen tools and smart prep. A key tool is a programmable slow cooker with a “keep warm” function to avoid overcooking. A stainless-steel skillet is also useful for browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
Required Cooking Tools
- Programmable slow cooker (6-quart capacity recommended)
- Stainless-steel skillet for browning the chicken
- Mixing bowls and measuring cups/spoons
- Sharp chef’s knife for chopping vegetables
- Garlic press or mincer
Ingredient Preparation Tips
Before cooking, spend a few minutes preparing the ingredients. Chop the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. This prep work makes putting the dish together in the slow cooker easy.
With the right tools and some prep, you’re set to make a tasty Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. The slow cooking process adds deep, rich flavors, making it a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Enjoy the rich flavors of easy chicken cacciatore with this simple slow cooker recipe. It has tender chicken and a tasty tomato-based sauce. This classic Italian dish is loved by families and great for busy weeknights.
This crockpot Italian chicken recipe is quick to prepare, needing just 15 minutes. The slow cooker makes it easy, giving you a delicious meal with little effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 to 2.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, diced
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 red, yellow, or orange bell pepper, sliced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)
This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe makes 6 servings. Each serving has 398 calories, 46g of carbs, 27g of protein, and 11g of fat.
The dish is packed with nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron. It’s a balanced meal with great Italian flavors. This easy chicken cacciatore is both tasty and healthy for the whole family.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get your kitchen ready for a delicious slow cooker Chicken Cacciatore. First, let’s start with
browning the chicken
to keep its juices in and get a tasty sear.
In a big skillet over medium-high heat, sear the seasoned chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. This step adds flavor and prepares the chicken for the slow cooker.
Now, let’s move on to
layering ingredients
in your slow cooker. Start with the seared chicken at the bottom. Then, add sautéed onions and garlic on top.
Next, put in the crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Make sure the chicken is covered in the sauce.
Finally, add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and Kalamata olives. Sprinkle in fresh herbs, capers, and a bit of dry white wine or balsamic vinegar.
Cover the slow cooker and let it cook. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 1.5-2.5 hours. This slow cooking makes the flavors blend perfectly and the chicken tender.
Remember, patience and detail are key for the perfect Chicken Cacciatore. Follow these steps to make a comforting, authentic Italian dish that will impress everyone.
The Perfect Sauce Consistency
Creating the ultimate thickening sauce for your slow cooker chicken cacciatore is all about a few simple steps. By using slow cooker techniques, you can turn the tomato-based sauce into a smooth, velvety sauce. This sauce will perfectly match the tender, flavorful chicken.
To get the sauce just right, remove the chicken from the slow cooker once it’s done. Then, let the sauce simmer uncovered on high for about an hour. This way, the liquid reduces, making the sauce thicker and more flavorful.
Or, you can use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Mix 1 tablespoon each of cornstarch, water, and warm sauce from the slow cooker. Stir this back into the slow cooker and simmer until it’s the right thickness, usually 5-10 minutes.
These easy thickening sauce methods will make your slow cooker chicken cacciatore even better. Whether you choose to simmer slowly or use a cornstarch slurry, you’ll get a sauce that coats every bite perfectly. This will make your dish a true Italian delight.
Tips for Maximum Flavor Development
To make the best Italian herbs and wine-infused Chicken Cacciatore, focus on boosting the dish’s flavor enhancement. Use herbs, spices, and wine wisely. A few easy tips can help you make this classic dish even better.
Herbs and Seasonings Guide
The heart of Chicken Cacciatore’s taste comes from its herbs. Mix fresh or dried Italian herbs like thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil. Adding fresh herbs at the end gives a bright, fragrant taste. Dried herbs, on the other hand, add deeper flavors as they cook.
- Fresh thyme leaves: 2 tablespoons, minced
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil leaves: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for a subtle kick)
Wine Selection Tips
Chicken Cacciatore needs cooking with wine for its signature taste. A dry red wine like Chianti or Merlot is perfect, adding a rich flavor. For a lighter taste, try a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
“The wine you cook with should be one you’re happy to drink – after all, you’ll be enjoying the same flavors in your dish.”
Choose a quality wine you’d love to drink. This way, the wine’s flavors will shine in your dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that pairs well with many sides. To serve this comforting meal, try these options:
- Whole wheat pasta: The rich, tomato-based sauce goes great with whole wheat pasta’s nutty flavor and firm texture.
- Brown rice: For a healthier choice, serve the chicken cacciatore over fluffy brown rice.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is a perfect base for the saucy chicken and vegetables.
- Zucchini noodles: Serve the cacciatore over spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Add fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and looks. Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or Italian bread for a complete meal.
| Side Dish | Why it Works |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Pasta | The nutty flavor and firm texture complement the rich, tomato-based sauce. |
| Brown Rice | A healthier alternative that provides a fluffy base for the flavorful chicken. |
| Polenta | The creamy texture of polenta pairs well with the saucy chicken and vegetables. |
| Zucchini Noodles | A low-carb option that allows the flavors of the cacciatore to shine. |
For more Italian flavors, try a robust red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s acidity and tannins balance the dish’s richness, making a perfect pair.
“Slow-cooked dishes like chicken cacciatore are the ultimate in Italian comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, tomato-based sauce is simply irresistible.”
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your slow cooker Chicken Cacciatore fresh is key. Follow some easy steps to enjoy this Italian dish for days. It’s all about the flavors and textures staying just right.
Freezing Instructions
Chicken Cacciatore is perfect for freezing. Cool it down, then put it in airtight containers. It can stay frozen for 3 months, great for when you’re short on time.
Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Leftover Management
- Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 4 days.
- To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop. Add a bit of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Or, reheat it in the microwave, stirring often, until it’s hot.
- Try mixing it with pasta or polenta for a tasty, quick meal.
These tips will help you enjoy Chicken Cacciatore for longer. It’s great for meal prep and leftovers. You’ll always have a delicious Italian dish ready when you need it.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe is tasty and true to its roots. But, you can make it your own by changing it up. Want it low-carb, gluten-free, or just to try new things? This recipe is perfect for dietary modifications and customization.
Chicken Variations
- Choose bone-in chicken pieces for a traditional taste, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Try chicken thighs for a richer, tender flavor.
Vegetable Additions
- Add diced zucchini, carrots, or olives for more taste and health benefits.
- Leave out the mushrooms if you don’t like them, or try different kinds.
- Roasted red peppers add sweetness and color.
Sauce Variations
- Use red wine instead of chicken broth for a deeper flavor.
- Change the tomato paste amount to adjust the sauce’s thickness.
- Adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar gives a tangy twist.
- Red pepper flakes add a spicy touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb meal.
- Pair it with garlic-infused mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Top with fresh basil, parmesan cheese, or ricotta cheese for extra taste.
By trying out these recipe variations and ingredient swaps, you can make the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore your own. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious and personalized meal every time.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Slow cooker chicken cacciatore is a tasty Italian dish that’s also good for you. It has about 291 calories, 33g of protein, 21g of carbs, and 7g of fat. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
The dish is made with chicken, veggies, and herbs. Chicken thighs are full of lean protein, iron, and zinc. They help with muscle repair and keeping your immune system strong. Onions, garlic, and mushrooms add antioxidants and may help fight cancer.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 291 kcal |
| Protein | 33g |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 144mg |
| Sodium | 837mg |
| Potassium | 898mg |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Vitamin A | 2,068 IU |
| Vitamin C | 86mg |
| Calcium | 93mg |
| Iron | 4mg |
This dish is not just tasty but also healthy. It’s high in protein, which is good for muscles and weight management. The veggies and herbs add antioxidants and may lower disease risk. You can also make it fit your dietary needs, making it a great choice for healthy meals.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful family-friendly meal. It brings the best of Italian-inspired cooking to your table. This comforting dish shows how slow cooking can make simple ingredients memorable and flavorful.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings. The rich, tomato-based sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic vegetables create a symphony of flavors. This will delight your senses.
Whether you choose bone-in chicken or boneless thighs, the result is a hearty and satisfying meal. Enjoy the convenience of hands-off cooking. Let the slow cooker work its magic, turning your kitchen into a cozy Italian trattoria.
As you savor the flavors of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, you’ll appreciate the time-honored traditions of Italian cuisine. This recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the transformative effects of slow cooking. Gather your loved ones, set the table, and indulge in this family-friendly, Italian-inspired masterpiece.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a tasty Italian dish great for weeknights or special events. It’s easy to prepare, needing just 15 minutes of prep. The dish combines chicken, tomato sauce, veggies, and herbs, all slow-cooked to perfection.
What are the origins of Chicken Cacciatore?
Chicken Cacciatore, or “hunter’s chicken,” has rustic roots. The slow cooker method makes the meat tender and brings out the flavors, making it a perfect choice for this recipe.
Why is slow cooking beneficial for this recipe?
Slow cooking is hands-off and brings out deep flavors. It tenderizes the meat, making it a great method for this dish.
What are the key ingredients in Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
The recipe includes chicken, garlic, balsamic vinegar, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, and Italian seasoning. These ingredients create a flavorful dish.
What kitchen equipment is needed for this recipe?
You’ll need a programmable slow cooker and a stainless-steel skillet. A slow cooker with a “keep warm” function helps prevent overcooking.
How do I prepare the ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Chop veggies, mince garlic, and season the chicken before cooking.
How long does Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore take to cook?
It serves 6 and takes 15 minutes to prep. Cook on low for 4-5 hours for breasts or 5-6 hours for thighs.
How do I ensure the sauce has the perfect consistency?
To thicken the sauce, remove the chicken and let it simmer uncovered on high for an hour. Or, make a cornstarch slurry and stir it into the slow cooker until thickened.
What are some tips for maximizing the flavor of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Use Italian seasoning for a blend of herbs. Add fresh herbs at the end for extra flavor. Red and white wine can also enhance the taste.
What are the best ways to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
Serve it over pasta, rice, polenta, or zucchini noodles. Top with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Try it with crusty bread, roasted veggies, or a green salad.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding water or broth if needed.
What are some recipe variations or substitutions?
Use bone-in chicken for a traditional taste, adjusting cooking time. Omit mushrooms if you prefer. For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Add red pepper flakes for more spice.
What are the nutritional benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
One serving has about 228-364 calories, 27-31g protein, 6-9g fat, and 10-42g carbs. It’s rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber from the veggies and tomato sauce.
