### Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore: Delicious Crockpot Recipe!

Looking for a flavorful, hearty meal that requires minimal effort? This **Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore** is the perfect answer! Bursting with the rich flavors of tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and herbs, this classic Italian dish is made even simpler by using a slow cooker. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious, comforting dinner ready for your family or guests without breaking a sweat.

#### **Why You'll Love This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe**

- **Effortless Cooking* Just throw everything in the crockpot, and let it do all the work.
- **Packed with Flavor* A savory blend of chicken, vegetables, and Italian spices.
- **Healthy and Nutritious* Full of lean protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients.
- **Perfect for Meal Prep* Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- **Family-Friendly* A dish that everyone around the dinner table will love.

#### **Ingredients You'll Need**

Here’s what you need to make this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:

- **4-6 chicken thighs or breasts** – Bone-in, skinless for the most flavor, but boneless works well too.
- **1 large onion, sliced** – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- **3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced** – For color, flavor, and texture.
- **3 cloves of garlic, minced** – For that classic Italian aroma.
- **1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes** – The base of the sauce.
- **1/2 cup of chicken broth** – Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- **1/4 cup of red wine (optional)** – For a richer sauce.
- **2 tablespoons of tomato paste** – To thicken and intensify the tomato flavor.
- **1 teaspoon of dried oregano** – A key herb in Italian cooking.
- **1 teaspoon of dried basil** – Adds a sweet, aromatic note.
- **1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes** – For a bit of heat (optional).
- **Salt and pepper to taste** – To enhance all the flavors.
- **2 tablespoons of olive oil** – For sautéing the vegetables.
- **Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)** – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

#### **How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore**

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Slice the onions and bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.

**Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)**
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds extra flavor and helps the chicken retain its moisture while cooking in the slow cooker.

**Step 3: Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker**
Place the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.

**Step 4: Layer the Chicken and Sauce**
Place the seared chicken thighs or breasts on top of the vegetables. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables.

**Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection**
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork, and the sauce should be rich and flavorful.

**Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
Once the chicken cacciatore is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for an extra burst of freshness.

#### **Serving Suggestions**

- **Over Pasta* Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of your favorite pasta—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work great!
- **With Rice or Polenta* For a gluten-free option, serve over steamed rice or creamy polenta.
- **Alongside Crusty Bread* Use crusty Italian bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
- **With a Side Salad* Pair with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.

#### **Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore**

1. **Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor* Bone-in chicken retains more moisture and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. If using boneless, reduce the cooking time slightly.
2. **Don’t Skip the Searing* Searing the chicken before slow cooking caramelizes the surface, adding flavor to the finished dish.
3. **Adjust the Spice Level* For a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced chili peppers.
4. **Make It Ahead* This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

#### **Why Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a Must-Try**

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian comfort food known for its hearty ingredients and rustic flavors. Making it in a slow cooker not only simplifies the process but also ensures the chicken becomes meltingly tender and the sauce rich and well-developed. It’s the perfect recipe for busy families, those new to cooking, or anyone who loves a delicious, no-fuss dinner.

#### **Final Thoughts**

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful dish that combines the best of Italian flavors with the convenience of modern cooking. It's sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation, bringing joy and warmth to every meal.

### Give it a Try!

Prepare this delicious chicken cacciatore for your next dinner and see why it's a favorite in kitchens around the world. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors, and savor every bite!