Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore: A Cozy Weeknight Essential
There’s something undeniably comforting about coming home to a house filled with the enticing aroma of a rich, homemade dinner bubbling away in the slow cooker. As the leaves begin to change color and the crisp autumn air settles in, this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore becomes a staple in my kitchen. It reminds me of those chilly evenings spent with family, gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over serving after serving of this tender, flavorful dish. It’s the perfect solution for an easy weeknight dinner that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Just imagine the golden pieces of chicken soaking in a savory sauce surrounded by vibrant red and green bell peppers mingling with fresh garlic and herbs. Cozy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the tender chicken and rich sauce, making it a winner for dinner time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair this cacciatore with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in the morning, and let it simmer all day for a flavorful dish waiting for you when you return home.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a balanced meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for browning (optional)
Let’s Make It Together
- If desired, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden hue.
- Place the browned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, sliced peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine all ingredients, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and enjoy!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Italian Twist: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy depth of flavor that will perfectly complement the dish.
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for an extra serving of wholesome goodness.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to elevate the flavor profile.
- Cheese, Please: Toward the end of the cooking time, sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt for a creamy, indulgent touch.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and let it cook while you’re at work.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the bell peppers with your favorite veggies or use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Slicing Made Easy: To ensure even cooking, slice your chicken breasts into thinner pieces before browning them.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months for a cozy meal on a future day.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 5g
- Total Fat: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in the morning or even the night before and let it simmer throughout the day.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and add your favorite vegetables instead. The beauty of cacciatore is its adaptability!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for a longer shelf life.
How long does it last?
When properly stored, Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore can last up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, an invitation to gather around the table, and a chance to create lasting memories. As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, this dish will quickly become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Save this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore to your "Cozy Dinner Ideas" board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A cozy and comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts and a rich, savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for browning (optional)
Instructions
- If desired, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden hue.
- Place the browned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, sliced peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine all ingredients, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This dish is perfect for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken, cacciatore, slow cooker, cozy dinner, Italian cuisine