Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Try this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe, or contribute your own.
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 medium white onion chopped
- fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley plus more for serving
- 6-8 skinless chicken thighs (i used bone-in)
- 1 cup diced red bell peppers
- 1 (28) ounce can of diced tomatoes drained
- 1 (6) ounce can tomato paste
- 6 kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup chopped kale stems removed
- 2 teaspoons corn starch plus 3 teaspoons water whisked together in a small bowl (to thicken up sauce - leave out if you want a thinner sauce consistency)
- grated parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Carbohydrate 6.26076312487114 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.8836459374795 g
- Fiber 1.67338123920941 g
- Protein 1.049222187478 g
- Saturated Fat 0.12905268749468 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 (68g)
- Sodium 1244.01846874997 mg
- Sugar 4.58738188566173 g
- Trans Fat 0.08574149999662 g
- Calories 34 calories
Step-by-step
- Season chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-tick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to slow cooker. Alternatively, if pressed for time, skip browning and add chicken straight to slow cooker.
- Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours.
- Minutes prior to serving, stir in the olives, kale and cornstarch/water slurry into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on HIGH, or until sauce thickens up slightly and kale is wilted.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley, basil leaves and taste and season with additional salt or pepper, as needed.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice or your favorite sides and top with grated parmesan, if desired.
My Favorite Weeknight Slow Cooker Meal: Chicken Cacciatore
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can often feel like an impossible task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other things that demand my attention, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes. They're incredibly convenient, requiring minimal prep time and effort, yet they consistently deliver flavorful and satisfying meals.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a perfect example. It’s a hearty, comforting dish brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory tomato sauce. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. I simply toss everything into my slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, a delicious and fragrant meal is waiting for me. No more stressing about what to make for dinner – this recipe is my go-to weeknight solution!
Why I Love This Recipe:
Convenience: Minimal prep time – toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work! Perfect for busy weeknights or days when I’m short on time.
Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich and complex flavor profile that elevates this dish beyond ordinary chicken stew. I particularly love the fresh basil and parsley – they add a burst of freshness that complements the hearty sauce perfectly.
Health: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this recipe is a nutritious and satisfying option that won't leave me feeling sluggish or bloated. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet without sacrificing taste or convenience.
Versatility: Serve it over pasta, rice, polenta, or even mashed potatoes. The options are endless!
Tips and Variations:
Bone-in vs. Boneless: I prefer using bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe because they add extra flavor to the sauce as they cook. However, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can also be used. Adjust cooking time accordingly, if using boneless chicken.
Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Zucchini, eggplant, spinach, or green beans would all be delicious additions to this dish.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, I use a cornstarch slurry, but you can also use a little bit of tomato paste or even a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce once the slow cooking is complete.
Make it Ahead: This recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits in the fridge.
Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Beyond the Recipe:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore isn't just a recipe; it's a time-saver, a flavor enhancer, and a stress reliever all rolled into one. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and clever cooking techniques. In our busy lives, finding shortcuts that don't compromise on taste or nutrition is key. This recipe perfectly encapsulates that philosophy, offering a delicious and healthy meal that doesn't demand a significant time commitment.
I encourage you to try this recipe and see how it fits into your busy schedule. It's become a staple in my household, and I'm confident it will become one of your favorites too! So, ditch the takeout menus and embrace the ease and deliciousness of this slow cooker masterpiece. Enjoy!
