When it comes to hearty and flavorful meals that practically cook themselves, you can’t go wrong with a classic Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore. This traditional Italian dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs that will fill your home with mouth-watering scents. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the convenience of using a slow cooker to tenderize the chicken while you go about your day. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore that will surely become a family favorite.
**Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore**
**Ingredients**:
– 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
– 4 chicken drumsticks
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions**:
1. Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker with the chicken.
6. In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and thyme. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with fresh parsley, over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of an Italian favorite without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is rich, comforting, and bursting with taste. Plus, the convenience of using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, coming back to a delicious meal ready to be enjoyed. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its depth of flavors and tender chicken that falls off the bone. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in the comfort of your own home!
