Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Name: Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 large onion, diced; 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this delicious and hearty Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore. Perfectly seasoned chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers and olives will make your taste buds dance.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:34:16.455Z

This Cozy Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is the perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld beautifully. The combination of tender chicken, bell peppers, and olives gives it a rustic charm that warms the heart.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out
Effortless preparation with the slow cooker
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping

      

The Comfort of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is more than just a convenience; it’s a method that enhances flavors and textures, making meals like Chicken Cacciatore truly magical. As the ingredients simmer together over several hours, the rich aromas fill your home, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons to all. The beauty of using a crockpot lies in its ability to turn simple ingredients into a complex, hearty dish without requiring constant attention.

This method is especially perfect for busy individuals and families. You can set it up in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, you’ll be greeted with a warm, satisfying meal. With minimal prep time, you can focus on other tasks while your dinner cooks to perfection, freeing up your evenings for relaxation or family time.

Nutritional Benefits

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore not only pleases your palate but also contributes to a balanced diet. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Combined with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions, this dish provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and antioxidants, which are crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.

Moreover, using olives adds healthy fats to the mix, promoting heart health and supporting cholesterol levels. The tomato base not only adds flavor but is also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases. This dish is as nourishing as it is delicious!

Versatile Serving Suggestions

While Chicken Cacciatore is delightful on its own, you can elevate your meal with various serving options. For a classic touch, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the sauce to coat each strand beautifully. Alternatively, consider pairing it with creamy polenta or a fluffy risotto for a comforting twist that complements the flavors perfectly.

For those looking to keep it lighter, a fresh green salad or sautéed vegetables can provide a crisp contrast to the rich sauce. Don't forget to have some crusty bread on hand to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a fantastic centerpiece for any dinner table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 large onion, diced
2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and slicing the bell peppers. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

Layer the Ingredients

In the crockpot, place the chicken thighs at the bottom. Layer the diced onions, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic on top.

Add the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over everything. Finish by adding the sliced olives.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine. Serve hot over pasta or with crusty bread.

Enjoy your cozy meal with your favorite side dishes!

Cooking Tips for Perfection

To ensure your Chicken Cacciatore turns out perfectly every time, consider searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the crockpot. This extra step caramelizes the meat, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the results will be even more satisfying with that added richness.

Also, don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños. Personalizing your dish not only makes it unique but also ensures it caters to your preferences.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from your Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so the leftovers might taste even better the next day! You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce appears too thick after storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. This dish is perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.

Exploring Variations

Chicken Cacciatore is a versatile dish that lends itself to many variations. If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor or zucchini for extra veggies. You could also experiment with different types of olives or even incorporate red wine into the sauce for added richness.

Additionally, for a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Cacciatore no matter your dietary preferences, making it a fantastic recipe for everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?

It's delicious served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.