Name: Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 lb. skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs; Kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup Swanson Chicken Broth (can use any chicken broth); 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes; 1/3 cup capers; 8 oz. cooked linguine, for serving

Introduction to Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

What is Chicken Cacciatore and Why It’s Perfect for Young Professionals?

If you’re seeking a comforting and flavorful meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying, look no further than slow-cooker chicken cacciatore. Originating from Italy, this rustic dish is a delightful medley of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory herbs, all simmered together to perfection. With minimal hands-on time, it’s an excellent choice for the busy young professional who wants to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

What's great about chicken cacciatore is its adaptability. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over a bed of linguine, making it a versatile option for any weeknight dinner. Plus, slow cooking enhances the flavors, allowing you to come home after a long day to an aromatic meal just waiting for you.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly recipe that doesn't compromise on taste, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Not only is chicken less expensive than other meats, but preparing it in a slow cooker means you won’t need to monitor it constantly. Just set it up, let it work its magic, and enjoy the delicious results! For more inspiration, check out our guide on meal prepping for professionals for easy and nutritious dining options.

Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Essential ingredients for a flavorful dish

Creating a mouthwatering slow-cooker chicken cacciatore starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lb. skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs: These add rich flavors and help keep the meat tender during cooking.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
2 bell peppers, chopped: They bring both sweetness and color to the dish.
8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, sliced: These mushrooms lend an earthy depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic kick.
1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes: This forms the base of your sauce, giving it a robust tomato flavor.
½ cup chicken broth: Enhances the moistness and taste of the dish.
1 tsp. dried oregano and ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes: For that classic Italian flavor with a spicy touch.
⅓ cup capers: They add a wonderful tang and brininess.

Optional add-ins for extra taste and texture

Once you’ve nailed the essentials, consider enhancing your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore with a few optional ingredients:

Olives: Just a handful can provide a deliciously salty flavor.
Carrots or zucchini: For added nutrition and sweetness, dice them up and throw them in.
Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley: Sprinkle some on top before serving for a fresh finishing touch.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own! Each variation brings a new twist to this timeless recipe. Want to make it even heartier? Serve it over cooked linguine, and you have a complete meal ready to impress!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Creating a delicious slow-cooker chicken cacciatore is easier than you might think. With just a little prep, you can whip up a comforting meal that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the steps.

Season the Chicken and Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by taking your 2 lb. skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs out of the package. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Next, season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial; well-seasoned chicken sets the stage for the rest of the flavors to develop beautifully. Once seasoned, place the chicken directly into your slow cooker. For added flavor, ensure your slow cooker is greasing with a bit of cooking spray beforehand.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to add in the vegetables. Chop 2 bell peppers and slice 8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms. Throw these in the slow cooker alongside 2 cloves minced garlic. Don't forget the star of the show: pour in a 28-oz. can of crushed tomatoes and ½ cup of chicken broth. The broth will help keep everything moist and create a delicious sauce as it cooks! This combination not only makes for a colorful dish but also layers in a variety of textures and flavors.

Season the Mixture and Set Cooking Time

Before you set it to cook, sprinkle in 1 tsp. dried oregano and ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes, along with a pinch of additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture gently to combine. Now it’s time to turn on your slow cooker! You can set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. During this time, the chicken will become tender and juicy, absorbing all those delightful flavors.

Prepare the Sauce and Serve

When your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore has finished cooking, carefully remove the chicken pieces. They should be fork-tender! Stir in ⅓ cup capers to the sauce left in the slow cooker to brighten up the dish. This addition brings a unique brininess that balances the rich flavors perfectly. Serve the chicken over 8 oz. cooked linguine for a heartwarming meal everyone will love.

Enjoy Your Meal

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Plate your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore with a generous serving of sauce over the pasta. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s bound to impress.

There's nothing quite like sharing a home-cooked meal with friends or family, and this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!

Variations of Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore with a Twist

Ready to shake things up? Try adding Italian sausage or even Turkey Bacon for extra flavor in your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore. You can also experiment with different veggies, like zucchini or olives, to cater to your family's taste buds. For a richer sauce, swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so don't hesitate to get creative.

Vegetarian Slow-Cooker Cacciatore

Not everyone in the family enjoys meat, right? A vegetarian version of slow-cooker chicken cacciatore is easy to whip up. Replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, and you'll have a delightful, satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. With nourishing ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for meatless Mondays. For more ideas, check out Forks Over Knives for plant-based recipes!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

When making slow-cooker chicken cacciatore, a few simple tips can elevate your dish:

Layering Matters: Arrange the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps it absorb moisture and flavors from the vegetables and sauce better.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or carrots. They not only enhance nutrition but also add great texture.
Think Ahead: Consider marinating the chicken overnight with your spices voor deeper flavor infusion. You can also prep your ingredients the night before—this saves time in the morning.
Use Quality Broth: A quality chicken broth significantly enhances the dish’s flavor. Check out options from Swanson, as mentioned in the recipe.

Try these tips, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious and comforting meal that friends and family will love!

Serving Suggestions for Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Pairing Options for a Complete Meal

To truly elevate your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore, consider adding some delightful accompaniments! For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside:

Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up that rich sauce.
A fresh salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten the dish.
Steamed veggies: Broccoli or asparagus can add a nutritious crunch.

You can also complete the experience with a refreshing sparkling water or herbal iced tea to balance the savory flavors.

Creative Serving Ideas

Looking to impress? Here are some fun ways to present your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore:

Stuffed peppers: Use hollowed-out bell peppers as bowls for your cacciatore. It’s visually appealing and delicious!
Polenta base: Serve it over creamy polenta instead of pasta for a comforting twist.
Flatbreads: Pile the chicken and sauce on warm flatbreads for a tasty wrap.

Feel free to mix and match these options for a memorable dining experience!

Time Breakdown for Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to season the chicken, chop the veggies, and measure out your ingredients. Pro tip: having everything prepped beforehand makes cooking so much more enjoyable!

Cooking Time

Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting! Depending on your day, cook the chicken on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld, creating a truly irresistible dish.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 6 hours and 15 minutes on the low setting or 3 hours and 15 minutes on the high setting, making it a perfect meal whether you're at home or busy during the day. Just set it and let it work its magic while you handle your day-to-day tasks!

For a hassle-free experience, gather your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore ingredients ahead of time—this meal practically cooks itself! Interested in more slow-cooker recipes? Check out these tasty options from Food Network or Serious Eats.

Nutritional Facts for Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this hearty slow-cooker chicken cacciatore packs approximately 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet manageable option for a healthy dinner after a long day.

Key Nutrients

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also nutritious! Key nutrients include:

Protein: Essential for muscle repair, thanks to the chicken.
Fiber: From the bell peppers and mushrooms, important for digestive health.
Vitamin C: Boosts your immune system, coming from fresh veggies.

For a deeper dive into nutrition, you might want to check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central. Enjoy your wholesome exploration of this delightful meal!

FAQs about Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to extend the cooking time. If you're using frozen chicken, cook on high for about 4 to 5 hours or on low for 7 to 9 hours. Just remember to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for the best results.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

If you want to elevate the heat in your slow-cooker chicken cacciatore, consider adding more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. You could also include a splash of hot sauce or a hint of cayenne pepper to really kick it up a notch!

What sides pair well with Chicken Cacciatore?

For a well-rounded meal, serve your chicken cacciatore with:

Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping in that delicious sauce!
Garlic mashed potatoes: A comforting classic that complements the dish.
Steamed vegetables: Such as broccoli or green beans for a refreshing contrast.

These pairings not only enhance the meal but also bring a variety of textures and flavors to the table!

Conclusion on Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Slow-cooker chicken cacciatore is the perfect dish for busy professionals seeking comfort food without the fuss. Packed with flavorful ingredients, it's a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress. Embrace the ease of slow cooking and enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner any night of the week!