Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hands-off dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to adore this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe. I absolutely love how the slow cooker turns the chicken incredibly tender while infusing it with rich, tangy tomato goodness and fragrant herbs. It’s one of those dishes you can set and forget, then come back to a kitchen that smells amazing and a meal that’s ready to impress!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe plays a key role in building that classic Italian flavor — plus, they’re easy to find at any grocery store! I like to grab fresh vegetables and quality canned tomatoes to get the best slow-cooked results.

• Boneless & skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are my go-to for juiciness, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness when searing the chicken first—it’s an optional but game-changing step.
• Yellow onion: Sliced and slow-cooked, it sweetens and enhances the sauce’s depth.
• Red and green bell peppers: Their sweetness brings vibrant color and flavor contrast.
• Mushrooms: They absorb the sauce beautifully, adding umami and texture.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic amps up the aromatic factor—and who doesn’t love garlic?
• Crushed and diced tomatoes: Use good-quality canned tomatoes—they’re the heart of that rich sauce.
• Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds a savory base to the sauce.
• Italian seasoning, dried basil, oregano: These herbs create the signature cacciatore flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but highly recommended if you like a little subtle heat.
• Capers: They bring a delightful briny pop that balances the sauce perfectly.
• Fresh parsley and basil: Finishing herbs brighten the dish with fresh color and taste.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your tastes or what you have on hand. I almost always switch things up depending on the season or if I want to make it lighter or heartier.

• Make it spicy: I sometimes bump up the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to give this dish a nice kick that wakes up the flavors.
• Vegetarian version: You can swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms and extra veggies like zucchini or eggplant for a veggie-packed slow cooker stew.
• White wine twist: Adding half a cup of white wine to the broth mixture gives it a nuanced flavor that’s lovely for date nights.
• Slow cooker with bone-in chicken: I’ve tried bone-in thighs too; they add richness but take a little longer to cook—just plan accordingly.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor (Totally Optional)

I usually heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and season the chicken with salt and pepper. Then, a quick 2–3 minute sear on each side gives the meat a beautiful golden crust that really amps up the flavor. Don’t skip this if you have time—it’s my little secret for tastier slow cooker meals. But if you’re in a rush, no worries, just toss the raw chicken in!

Step 2: Layer Your Veggies

Next, I add the sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic right to the bottom of the slow cooker. This layering keeps the veggies from getting soggy and builds a flavorful bed for the chicken.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Pour the Tomato Sauce

Place your chicken pieces on top of the veggies. Then mix the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and all those lovely Italian herbs and spices in a bowl. Pour that sauce over the chicken and veggies, making sure everything is covered so the flavors can meld perfectly during cooking.

Step 4: Let It Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and easy to pull apart. At this stage, the sauce has deepened beautifully, and the entire kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 5: Stir in Capers, Adjust Seasonings, and Serve

Just before serving, stir in your capers. They add an unexpected burst of briny brightness that balances the rich tomato sauce. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve over your favorite pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Garnishes

I swear by a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley and basil right before serving—it adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, I even add a drizzle of good olive oil or a little grated Parmesan if the crowd’s feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides. I usually serve it over buttery mashed potatoes or my favorite spaghetti cooked al dente. When the weather’s nicer, a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies alongside balances the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to plate the chicken atop a bed of creamy polenta and add a few whole roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. It turns a humble meal into something that feels restaurant-worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the meal, let the leftover Chicken Cacciatore cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times, and it reheats really well. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan on low, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce is too thick. This keeps the chicken tender and prevents the sauce from drying out. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I love this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe because it’s an effortless way to enjoy a rich, comforting Italian meal without slaving away in the kitchen. It’s ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want something hearty and nourishing with zero stress. Give it a try — I have a feeling this one will find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation, just like it did in mine!

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