Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Stew
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a healthy and hearty Italian-inspired dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, delivering deep flavor with minimal effort. Ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings, it’s flexible, nourishing, and always satisfying.
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
- 1 Large Skillet (for browning)
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Garlic Press
- 1 Meat Thermometer
- 1 Measuring Spoons & Cups
- 1 Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Tongs (for turning the chicken)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon + ½ teaspoon balsamic vinegar divided
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium green bell pepper diced
- 8 ounces baby bella cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
For Serving (Choose Your Base)
- Whole wheat pasta brown rice, polenta, spiralized zucchini, or spaghetti squash (cooked and shredded)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken for Flavor: Begin by lightly coating your slow cooker insert with nonstick spray. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for about 2 minutes. Transfer the browned chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics for Depth: Lower the skillet heat to medium. Carefully wipe out any excess residue with a paper towel, then add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil. When heated, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, cooking for another 60 seconds until fragrant and slightly reduced. Scrape the mixture (including any flavorful bits stuck to the pan) into the slow cooker over the chicken.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Layer the crushed tomatoes, diced bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and Italian seasoning over the chicken and sautéed aromatics in the slow cooker. Do not stir; keeping the chicken on the bottom allows it to absorb maximum flavor.
- Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover and cook according to the type of chicken used:
- Chicken Breasts: Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 1½–2½ hours
- Chicken Thighs: Cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. At that point, transfer it to a plate and either shred, chop, or leave whole based on your preference.
- Thicken Sauce for Better Texture (Optional but Recommended): If you have time, leave the slow cooker uncovered and turn it to HIGH for about 1 hour. This helps the tomato sauce reduce and intensify in flavor. Right before serving, stir in the remaining ½ teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to brighten the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Return the chopped or shredded chicken to the thickened sauce, or serve whole pieces topped with a generous spoonful of sauce. Plate over your base of choice—such as pasta, polenta, or veggie noodles—and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Chicken Choice: While both breasts and thighs work beautifully, thighs are slightly more forgiving and stay juicier, especially if cooking on high.
- Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or carrots for more texture and nutrients.
- Serving Ideas: For a low-carb meal, serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini. For classic comfort, stick with pasta or creamy polenta.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add depth and a touch of heat if desired.
