Crockpot Recipes

January 12, 2026

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore: 7 Hearty Steps to Comfort

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

127 Views • 10 min read

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore: 7 Hearty Steps to Comfort

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Hey there! If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ve got to try my Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore! Seriously, it’s one of those dishes that fills your home with the most amazing aroma while you carry on with your day.

I love how the chicken thighs get all tender and juicy, soaking up the rich flavors of bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs as they simmer away in the crockpot.

Plus, it’s super easy to throw together—just toss everything in, set it, and forget it! You won’t believe the delicious, restaurant-quality meal you can whip up with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients List

2 lbs chicken thighs (skin-on or skinless, your choice!)
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color works, but I love the sweetness of red or yellow!)
1 onion, chopped (a yellow onion adds a nice depth of flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on this—garlic makes everything better!)
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz) (you can go for seasoned ones for an extra kick)
1 cup chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, whatever you have on hand)
1 tsp dried oregano (a classic Italian herb that brings all the flavors together)
1 tsp dried basil (fresh is great too, but dried works perfectly here)
Salt and pepper to taste (season it to your liking—don’t be shy!)

How to Prepare Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a hearty meal that warms your soul!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab your crockpot and place the 2 lbs of chicken thighs right at the bottom. You want them to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Next, toss in the sliced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. Trust me, the combination of these veggies is where the magic starts!
Now, open that can of diced tomatoes and pour them over the chicken and veggies. Don’t forget to add that 1 cup of chicken broth too. It’ll help create a wonderful sauce as it cooks.
Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over everything, and then season with salt and pepper to your taste. I like to give it a nice sprinkle—after all, seasoning is key!
Cover the crockpot with its lid, then set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. This is where the patience pays off; the longer it cooks, the more tender the chicken will be!
When the cooking time is up, remove the chicken thighs and shred them with two forks. It’s gonna be so tender, it practically falls apart!
Finally, mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce and serve it up hot. You’ll want to make sure every bite is drenched in that rich, flavorful goodness.

And there you go! You’ve just made an incredible *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress anyone who sits at your table. Can’t wait for you to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Seriously, just toss everything in the crockpot, set it, and go about your day. It’s practically foolproof!
Rich, Deep Flavors: The slow cooking process melds all those gorgeous ingredients together, creating a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. You won’t just taste the tomatoes—you’ll get the sweetness of the bell peppers and the aromatic herbs too!
Healthy and Wholesome: With chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and herbs, this dish is packed with protein and nutrients. Plus, it’s gluten-free!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day!
Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or spices. Mushrooms, zucchini, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate it even more!
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect weeknight dinner choice that everyone will enjoy.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to dive into making your *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore*, here are some of my best tips to ensure it turns out absolutely delicious!

Choose the Right Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay moist and tender even after long cooking times. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be mindful that they can dry out if overcooked. You might want to check them a little earlier!
Don’t Skip the Searing: For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs in a pan before adding them to the crockpot. It adds a beautiful depth to the dish, but if you’re short on time, don’t worry—the slow cooker works its magic just fine without it!
Season Generously: When it comes to seasoning, don’t be shy! Taste the sauce before serving and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Each ingredient should shine through!
Timing is Key: If you’ve got time to let it cook on low for the full 8 hours, do it! The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the chicken will be incredibly tender. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it on high for about 4 hours, but I really recommend the low and slow method.
Add Veggies Wisely: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even carrots. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes so everything cooks evenly. Adding them too early can make them mushy, so consider adding them in the last hour of cooking for the best texture!
Pairing Options: Think about what to serve alongside your *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore*. Pasta, rice, or even a crusty loaf of bread work wonders to soak up that beautiful sauce. A simple side salad can also add a fresh touch to your meal!

Follow these tips, and you’re well on your way to a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are not set in stone. They’re meant to give you a general idea of what to expect with my *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore*.

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 3g
Cholesterol: 100mg

These estimates can help you keep track of your meals, but remember, the real joy comes from the delicious flavors and the love you put into cooking! Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it up! This dish is so versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that can really complete your meal.

Pasta: A classic choice! I love serving it over a bed of al dente spaghetti or fettuccine. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making each bite a flavor explosion!
Rice: If you’re in the mood for something hearty, a scoop of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up that rich sauce. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, while white rice keeps it classic and simple.
Crusty Bread: Don’t underestimate the power of a good loaf of bread! A warm, crusty baguette or a rustic bread is fantastic for mopping up every last drop of that savory sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Side Salad: For a fresh contrast, serve it with a light side salad. A simple mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty chicken dish perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: If you want to keep it healthy, roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli make a colorful and nutritious side. They’re easy to prepare while the chicken is cooking!

So, pick your favorite sides and get ready for a meal that’s not just filling but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite of your *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* experience!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore*? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my favorite answers to help you out.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts if that’s what you prefer. Just keep an eye on them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. If you go this route, consider checking for doneness a bit earlier, around the 4-5 hour mark on low.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even carrots. Just remember to add them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them from getting too mushy!

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). But honestly, if it falls apart easily, you’re golden!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Leftovers freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What do you recommend serving with this dish?

I love serving my *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* over pasta or rice, but crusty bread or a fresh side salad are great options too! It’s all about what you’re in the mood for—just make sure to soak up that delicious sauce!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of my *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore*, and now you’ve got some delicious leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay just as tasty as the first time around.

First off, let your chicken cacciatore cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container—they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

If you want to keep it longer, you can absolutely freeze it! Just scoop the cooled cacciatore into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to label them with the date, and they’ll be good for about 3 months. To reheat, just let them thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Just place the cacciatore in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened up too much. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions, just remember to cover them to keep the moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s piping hot.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of *Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore* all week long!