Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of this Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
This Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is a delicious twist on a classic Italian dish. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken infused with savory herbs and spices
- Rich tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or crusty bread
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore to lift your spirits. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a medley of colorful bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce. The slow-cooked flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs offer a good source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe allows you to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Effortless Cooking with Minimal Cleanup
One of the greatest advantages of this Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that requires minimal effort. The preparation time is quick, and the slow cooker does the heavy lifting for you, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones while dinner cooks itself.
Additionally, using a crockpot means fewer dishes to wash. Once you've browned the chicken and combined the ingredients in the pot, you can simply relax. The slow cooking process not only enhances the flavors but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Versatile Serving Options
This Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you prefer pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this dish pairs wonderfully with any of them. The rich tomato sauce complements the starchy sides beautifully, soaking into the pasta or bread for an extra burst of flavor.
For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of steamed vegetables or with a side salad. This allows you to enjoy the delightful flavors while keeping the meal balanced and fresh. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to please every palate at the table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Cacciatore
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, green, and yellow)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the bell peppers and onion, and mincing the garlic. Set aside.
Brown the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and brown them for about 5 minutes on each side.
Combine in the Crockpot
Place the browned chicken in the crockpot. Add the chopped vegetables, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Serve and Enjoy
Shred the chicken if desired, and serve with your choice of pasta, rice, or bread.
This dish is best enjoyed warm, and it makes fantastic leftovers!
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize your Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore to suit your taste preferences. Adding olives or capers can introduce a briny flavor that complements the dish beautifully. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to give it a unique twist.
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even turkey for a leaner option. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time if needed.
→ How can I make this dish spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the crockpot for a spicy kick.
→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge.
→ What sides pair well with Chicken Cacciatore?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.
Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of this Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Cacciatore
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, green, and yellow)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed 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
Start by chopping the bell peppers and onion, and mincing the garlic. Set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and brown them for about 5 minutes on each side.
Place the browned chicken in the crockpot. Add the chopped vegetables, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred the chicken if desired, and serve with your choice of pasta, rice, or bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g