Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. This slow cooker version simplifies the traditional recipe, allowing you to enjoy the rich, savory sauce and tender chicken without all the fuss. With a combination of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and herbs, this dish is a hearty and satisfying option that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Love crock pot recipes? Try these ones next: Crockpot Chili, Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches and Crockpot Zuppa Toscana.

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

My family has been huge fans of chicken cacciatore for years, but I always found the traditional stovetop method to be a bit time-consuming. That’s why I decided to create this slow cooker version. It’s my go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. I hope you love it as much as I do!

The best thing about this slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Simply toss the chicken, vegetables, and sauce into the slow cooker and let it do the rest of the work. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a truly delicious and satisfying meal.

Serve the crockpot chicken cacciatore with pasta, rice, potatoes – your choice! All are delicious options that really round out the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this, saucy, hearty, delicious meal!

• Easy to Make: This recipe is a set it and forget it recipe. You throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker and come back to a dinner that’s ready to eat 8 hours later!
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and savory vegetables makes for a truly flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it great to enjoy for lunch or dinner the next day!

Ingredients and Substitutions

You are going to love how easy this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe is because it uses pantry staples and easily accessible ingredients. You can find the amounts and everything you need for this recipe in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Looking to swap one or more ingredients? Here are some suggestions:

• Chicken Breasts: Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or olives for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herbs: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano if available, adjusting the quantity as needed.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore Slow Cooker Method

This Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is so easy to make! After you place of the ingredients in your slow cooker, the rest is completely hands off. Dinner is ready to serve in 6-8 hours! As always, you can find the full printable recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Spray the insert of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. (To add more flavor, saute these ingredients in one tablespoon of olive oil until the onions are translucent, 5 to 7 minutes.)
3. Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
4. Whisk together the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Chicken Cacciatore goes great with a side of crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up all of that delicious sauce!

Storage Information

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Freezer: Allow the chicken cacciatore to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or stovetop before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 6-7 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Cook them down until they break apart and become saucy before adding to the slow cooker.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, it’s not essential to brown the chicken first. However, browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker can add extra depth of flavor.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Cook the chicken and vegetables in a large pot over medium heat. Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it and return to the pot to combine with the sauce, or leave it whole.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your chicken broth and other ingredients do not contain gluten.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to make sure the chicken cooks all the way through.

Variations to Try

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for a kick of heat.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Swap the chicken for pork, sausage, or meatballs.
• Stir in a some heavy cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Consider removing the chicken, shredding it and returning it to the pot before serving. This allows the sauce to really penetrate and flavor the chicken and can make it easier for children to eat and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken cacciatore is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite things to serve with it!

• Molasses No Knead Bread
• Pasta – like egg noodles, fettuccine, penne, spaghetti, or linguine
• Rice – white or brown rice
• Air Fryer Garlic Bread
• Mashed Potatoes

More Chicken Recipes to Try

1. Chicken Stir Fry
2. Monterey Chicken
3. Cajun Chicken Pasta
4. Chicken Aflredo Bake
5. Cornflake Chicken