Okay, my flavor-obsessed friend, prepare to have your socks knocked off! I’ve been tinkering and taste-testing like a mad scientist in my kitchen, and I’ve finally nailed the ultimate slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe.
You know me, I don’t settle for “good.” It has to be a flavor explosion, a party in your mouth, something that makes you want to do a little salsa dance right there in your kitchen! This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe delivers exactly that. I remember the first time I tasted a proper, home-style cacciatore, the earthy aroma of oregano and those perfectly softened bell peppers were like a warm hug. I knew I had to recreate that in my own style.
Forget bland and boring! This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is packed with so much flavor, it’s practically illegal. We’re talking tender chicken, a rich tomato sauce spiked with garlic and herbs, and those melt-in-your-mouth peppers that make every bite an absolute dream. The secret? A touch of red pepper flakes for that signature Cuba Queen kick!
What really made me know I’d nailed this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe? My neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, who is a straight-up Italian grandma when it comes to food, gave it two thumbs up and asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew it was ready to share with you.
Get ready, amiga, because this is not your average, blah slow cooker meal. This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is Cuba Queen approved, and it’s about to become your new favorite way to conquer those weeknight dinners. I am so hyped to share this with you, let’s get into it!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Don’t let the simplicity fool you – each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of bold flavor.
- 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trust me, thighs are key for maximum flavor and moisture!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color, or a mix for extra visual appeal!), sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp!)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup dry red wine (like Chianti or Merlot, but don’t use anything you wouldn’t drink!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference, of course!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
The secret to an epic slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is using high-quality crushed tomatoes. They make all the difference in the richness and depth of the sauce. Splurge on a good brand if you can, you’ll be thanking me later!
You’ll find the best bell peppers for this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe at your local farmer’s market. The fresher, the better, because they bring a natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Here’s the slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe game-changer that will blow your mind: add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar near the end of cooking. It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that elevates the entire dish.
And for my budget-friendly flavor adventurers, use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed, just make sure to drain some of the liquid. Store any unused fresh herbs in the freezer wrapped in a damp paper towel, they’ll last for weeks.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Okay, get ready, because this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is about to become your new go-to weeknight dinner champion. Don’t stress – your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is going to be incredible.
- First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. This is a MUST! Don’t skip this step. It adds so much flavor and texture to your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe.
- Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker. Pro tip for slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe perfection: arrange the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe should look like a vibrant mix of colors, and smell amazing.
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This is where your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe transforms into pure magic. Don’t let the garlic burn!
- Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is crucial for adding depth of flavor to your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe.
- Pour the mixture from the skillet over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir gently to combine everything. In my kitchen, this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe takes exactly 6 hours on low, or 3 hours on high.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. Your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe should smell like a little piece of Italy!
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks directly in the slow cooker.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your chance to make this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe your own!
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. While your slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!
Here’s where most people mess up their slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe – but not you! Make sure to sear the chicken properly and don’t overcook it in the slow cooker. Overcooked chicken is dry and sad, and we’re all about happy chicken here at Cuba Queen!
PRESENTATION:
Presentation is key, amiga! You want this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe to look as good as it tastes. I mean, we eat with our eyes first, right?
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe over creamy polenta. The richness of the polenta perfectly complements the acidity of the tomato sauce.
For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve the slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe in a rustic bowl, topped with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe absolutely slays at dinner parties! Serve it family-style with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Bold pairing suggestions? Try it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a side of roasted vegetables. And for a complete Italian feast, follow up with some slow cooker beef short ribs.
Perfect occasions for this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe? It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a casual get-together with friends.
Creative leftover transformations? Use the leftover slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe to make amazing sandwiches, stuffed peppers, or even a hearty soup.
Seasonal variations? In the fall, add roasted butternut squash to the slow cooker for a touch of sweetness. In the summer, use fresh, locally grown tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs:
I know you’ve got questions, my flavor adventurer, so let’s tackle those head-on. I want you to feel completely confident conquering this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe!
Q: Can I make this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes, or even a chopped jalapeño, to the slow cooker. I’ve been known to add a pinch of cayenne for that extra kick!
Q: What if I don’t have red wine for my slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
A: No problem! You can substitute chicken broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. Just remember that the red wine adds a certain depth of flavor, so try to use it if you can.
Q: How do I know when my slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is perfectly done?
A: The chicken should be cooked through and easily shred with a fork. The sauce should be thick and rich. If it’s too thin, you can remove the lid from the slow cooker and let it cook for another hour or so to reduce the sauce.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
A: You can, but I highly recommend using chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. Chicken breasts tend to dry out in the slow cooker. If you do use chicken breasts, be sure to check them frequently and don’t overcook them.
Q: Can I add mushrooms to this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
A: Yes! Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and peppers. They’ll add a lovely earthy flavor to the dish.
Q: What should I serve with this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
A: This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is delicious served over pasta, rice, polenta, or even mashed potatoes. And don’t forget the crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce! If this sounds amazing, you NEED to try Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore | Easy, Healthy Recipe.
Q: Can I freeze this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe?
A: Yes! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: My sauce is too watery, what do I do?
A: No problem! Just remove the lid from the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to help the sauce reduce. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it up. For more bold flavor adventures, check out slow cooker chicken noodle soup.
CONCLUSION:
This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, simple ingredients, and recipes that make you feel like a rockstar in the kitchen. I am so confident that you are going to absolutely nail this recipe.
My slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe Power Tips:
- Sear the chicken! This is non-negotiable for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! Check it frequently and shred it as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning! This is your chance to make this recipe your own.
Here are a few slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe variations I’ve created and loved:
- Spicy Cacciatore: Add a chopped jalapeño and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker.
- Mushroom Cacciatore: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and peppers.
- Vegetable Cacciatore: Add zucchini, eggplant, or any other of your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker. If you want more Italian flavors then be sure to check out Easy Chicken Cacciatore (Stovetop or Crock-Pot) | The ….
The Spicy Cacciatore version always gets the biggest reactions, probably because I tend to go a little overboard with the spice!
I’m absolutely sure that this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is going to become your signature dish. I encourage you to make it your own, experiment with different variations, and share your results with me. I can’t wait to see all the photos and videos of your culinary creations! Let’s not forget Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore for all the best slow cooker recipes.
Now go forth, my flavor adventurer, and create some slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe memories! And if you like this recipe, you’ll love my slow cooker buffalo chicken dip. Get ready to taste the flavor explosions and dance your way through the kitchen. Let me know how your creation turned out! I am so hyped to see. ✨🔥🌮
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slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful Chicken Cacciatore made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked pasta or polenta, for serving
Instructions
- Place the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Serve the chicken cacciatore over cooked pasta or polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.