Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and let it do all the work while you go about your day.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender chicken thighs and a rich, savory tomato sauce creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect family meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it over spaghetti, rice, or even in a sandwich, this recipe adapts to your preferences.

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy? Say hello to Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore! This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy trattoria. Imagine tender chicken thighs simmering in a rich tomato sauce, infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this easy, mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

Ingredients

• 🍗 8 skinless bone-in chicken thighs (washed and patted dry)
• 🧂 ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• 🧂 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 🫒 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 🍅 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 🧄 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 🧅 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 🌶️ 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 🍄 8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms (sliced)
• 🍅 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 🌿 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 🌿 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)
• 🌿 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (chopped)
• 🌶️ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 🍗 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 🌿 ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 🍝 1 box (16 ounces) spaghetti noodles

Directions

1. Start by rinsing and drying each chicken thigh thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear and flavor.
2. Sprinkle the chicken thighs with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring they are well-seasoned.
3. In your slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom. This allows the juices to flow over the chicken as it cooks.
4. Add the olive oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, diced onion, diced red bell pepper, sliced baby Bella mushrooms, and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Next, sprinkle in the fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes for that extra kick of flavor.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the chicken will become, falling off the bone with ease.
8. Once cooked, serve the chicken cacciatore over a bed of cooked spaghetti noodles, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, the options are endless! Here are a few fun ideas:

• Classic Style: Serve the chicken and sauce over a generous portion of spaghetti noodles, allowing the sauce to soak into the pasta.
• Italian Sub: Shred the chicken and serve it in a toasted sub roll, topped with mozzarella cheese for a delicious sandwich.
• Over Rice: For a gluten-free option, serve the chicken cacciatore over fluffy rice or quinoa.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair it with a side of crusty Italian bread for dipping into the rich sauce.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining chicken cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe in a regular pot? Yes, you can simmer it on the stove, but the cooking time will be shorter.
3. What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or water can be used as alternatives.
4. Is this recipe spicy? The red pepper flakes add a mild heat; you can adjust the amount to your preference.
5. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, carrots, or any of your favorite veggies.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
7. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
8. What type of pasta works best? Spaghetti is traditional, but any pasta shape you love will work!
9. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
10. How can I make it more flavorful? Consider marinating the chicken in herbs and spices overnight before cooking.