Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is the ideal comfort food—packed with vibrant flavors and tender chicken that falls off the bone. The slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a savory, aromatic sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or crusty bread. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and black olives brings depth to the dish, while the chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful. It’s easy, hands-off, and makes the perfect meal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin removed

• 1 onion, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red capsicum, sliced

• 1 yellow capsicum, sliced

• 400g can diced tomatoes

• 2 tablespoon tomato paste

• ½ cup chicken stock

• ½ cup pitted black olives

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.

2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, red and yellow capsicums, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken stock into the slow cooker.

3. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.

5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the pitted black olives.

6. Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can mix in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.

• Spicy kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper.

• Use chicken breasts: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, though the cooking time may be shorter.

• Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, though the cooking time may be slightly reduced.

Can I make Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you're ready to serve.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply peel, seed, and chop them, and substitute for the canned diced tomatoes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, include red pepper flakes, a fresh chili pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to the dish.

What sides go well with Chicken Cacciatore?

This dish pairs well with a side of pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or a green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe in a regular pot?

Yes, if you don't have a slow cooker, you can make it in a large pot on the stove. Simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

What can I substitute for black olives?

If you don’t have black olives, you can use green olives or omit them entirely, though they do add a nice salty flavor to the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone when it's ready. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I add wine to this recipe?

Yes! A splash of red wine can be added along with the chicken stock for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that takes minimal effort to prepare. With tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a savory sauce filled with vegetables and olives, it's the perfect dish for busy days or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part is that you can customize it with your favorite ingredients and have a delicious, comforting dinner ready when you need it.

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Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a rich and flavorful Italian dish that features tender chicken thighs, bell peppers, tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs, all cooked together in a slow cooker to create a savory and aromatic sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low
• Total Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin removed

1 onion, sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 red capsicum, sliced

1 yellow capsicum, sliced

400g can diced tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

½ cup chicken stock

½ cup pitted black olives

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, red and yellow capsicums, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken stock into the slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the pitted black olives.
6. Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

• If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, though the cooking time may be shorter.
• For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg