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Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

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Slow cooker chicken cacciatore is a rustic Italian classic made easy. Tender chicken slow-simmered in a tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs delivers deep, comforting flavor with minimal effort. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends—just set it and forget it.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or drumsticks

Bell peppers (red and green), sliced

Onion, sliced

Garlic, minced

Crushed tomatoes

Tomato paste

Italian seasoning

Bay leaf

Salt

Black pepper

Olive oil

Optional: Sliced mushrooms, olives, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  • Sear the Chicken (Optional):
    Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown chicken on both sides for added flavor.

  • Prep the Vegetables:
    Slice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic.

  • Add to Slow Cooker:
    Layer chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with bell peppers, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

  • Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.

  • Finish:
    Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot over pasta, rice, polenta, or crusty bread

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, don’t skip browning the chicken.

  • Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

  • Stir in olives or mushrooms at the beginning for variation.

  • Boneless thighs or breasts can be used for easier serving.

  • Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/slow-cooker-chicken-cacciatore/