Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A warm and hearty dish that brings the comfort of Italian cuisine right to your home.
This Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken infused with aromatic herbs and spices
- Rich tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or crusty bread
- Effortless preparation thanks to the crockpot
A Taste of Italy at Home
Chicken cacciatore is a traditional Italian dish that translates to 'hunter's chicken.' This cozy crockpot version simplifies the classic recipe while maintaining its heartwarming flavors. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of tender chicken simmering in a savory tomato sauce, bursting with the essence of fresh herbs. This dish not only transports your taste buds to Italy but also fills your home with a comforting scent that invites everyone to gather around the table.
The beauty of chicken cacciatore lies in its versatility. While it's delicious on its own, it pairs exceptionally well with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, or alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can even enjoy it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to please.
Crockpot Convenience
One of the standout features of this cozy chicken cacciatore recipe is the use of a crockpot. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. Simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. This hands-off cooking approach is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without the fuss.
Not only does the crockpot save you time, but it also ensures that the chicken remains incredibly tender and juicy. As it cooks slowly, the chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce and herbs, creating a dish that's bursting with taste. Plus, you can enjoy the convenience of preparing everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It's a win-win for any home cook looking to create a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This cozy crockpot chicken cacciatore is not just a delightful dinner option; it also shines as a meal prep hero. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only improve as the dish sits in the refrigerator, allowing the herbs and spices to deepen and enrich the overall taste. Simply reheat and enjoy a satisfying meal that tastes as good as the day it was made.
Freezing is another excellent option for this recipe. Portion the chicken cacciatore into freezer-safe containers and store them for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the crockpot or on the stove. This makes for a convenient, homemade meal that’s ready whenever you need it, making busy days a bit more manageable.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in the crockpot for a hassle-free meal.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Slow Cook
Transfer the mixture to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot, stir to combine, and serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Enjoy your cozy meal with family and friends!
Tips for the Best Chicken Cacciatore
To enhance the flavor profile of your chicken cacciatore, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce. This addition brings depth and complexity, making the dish even more enjoyable. Just be sure to allow the alcohol to cook off during the slow cooking process.
If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes to the mix. This will give your dish a nice kick without overpowering the traditional flavors. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve your chicken cacciatore with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The freshness of the salad will balance the richness of the dish, while the garlic bread is perfect for mop up the remaining sauce on your plate.
A glass of Chianti or another Italian red wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. The wine's acidity complements the tomato sauce, while its fruity notes elevate the flavors of the chicken and herbs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs; just increase the cooking time by an hour.
→ What can I serve with chicken cacciatore?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
A warm and hearty dish that brings the comfort of Italian cuisine right to your home.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot, stir to combine, and serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g