chicken cacciatore crock pot recipe

chicken cacciatore crock pot recipe

The Best chicken cacciatore crock pot recipe

I’ve been making chicken cacciatore in my crock pot for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, cooks slowly all day while I’m busy with work or running errands, and the result is always tender and flavorful.

My kids and husband devour it, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. The best part?

It’s also relatively healthy, with lean protein from the chicken, plenty of veggies, and no added sugars. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and seasonings.

When I think of chicken cacciatore, I think of Italy – the rich flavors, the hearty portions, the sense of comfort food that warms the soul. This crock pot recipe captures that essence perfectly.

The slow cooking process breaks down the chicken’s connective tissues, making it fall-apart tender. And with all those veggies – onions, bell peppers, mushrooms – you know you’re getting a meal that’s packed with fiber and vitamins too.

My family loves it when I serve this over pasta or rice, but we also enjoy it on its own as a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s just one of those recipes that never fails to please.

Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore

4.9 from 1500 votes

A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired stew featuring tender chicken, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

1 onion, sliced
2 bell peppers, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For Serving

2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups cooked pasta

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Set aside.
2In a crock pot, add the sliced onions, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic.
3Stir to combine.
4Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture.
5Pour the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste over the chicken and vegetables.
6Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes over the top.
7Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8The sauce should be thick and the vegetables should be softened.
9Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
10Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine with the sauce.
11Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
12Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the oil.
13Serve the pasta topped with the chicken cacciatore mixture.

🔧Equipment

Crock pot
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes. You can also add mushrooms or olives for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore Works

I always recommend storing leftovers of this recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezing them for later use.

When reheating leftovers, make sure they’re hot throughout before serving.

You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables – zucchini works well – or spices – red pepper flakes are great for adding an extra kick.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore

Q: What is chicken cacciatore?

A: Chicken cacciatore is an Italian dish made with chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. It’s often served with pasta or rice.

Q: What is the difference between chicken cacciatore and other Italian chicken dishes?

A: Unlike some other Italian chicken dishes like chicken parmesan or chicken marsala, chicken cacciatore is typically made without cream or heavy sauces. Instead, it relies on the slow cooking process to break down the flavors of the ingredients and create a rich, savory sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?

A: While the crock pot is ideal for this recipe because it allows for low-and-slow cooking without constant monitoring, you can also make it on the stovetop or in the oven using lower heat settings. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets like gluten-free or low-carb?

A: Yes, this recipe can be adapted to suit various special diets by using gluten-free pasta or rice alternatives and adjusting the seasoning to accommodate low-carb requirements.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken cacciatore for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot through.

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