This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting and wholesome Italian-inspired crock pot dish. A rustic masterpiece featuring tender chicken, aromatic veggies, and flavorful herbs.
Updated August 2023
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore: A Hearty and Flavorful Italian Delight
Are you ready to indulge in a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s not only incredibly delicious but also a breeze to make? If you’re a fan of rich flavors, tender chicken, and the convenience of slow cooking, then you’re in for a treat! This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore recipe is here to satisfy your cravings and make your kitchen smell like a rustic Italian trattoria. Plus, for those who are short on time, there’s an Instant Pot option that’ll have this delightful dish on your table even faster.
With its rich blend of flavors and melt-in-your-mouth chicken, this crock pot recipe offers a truly satisfying and heartwarming meal. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker or Instant Pot, and let the enchanting aroma of Italy fill your kitchen.
History of Chicken Cacciatore:
The roots of Chicken Cacciatore trace back to the Italian countryside, where it was created as a hearty and comforting dish by hunters. After a long day of tracking game, hunters would gather wild mushrooms, onions, and herbs, and then prepare a stew with the catch of the day. This rustic dish, made with simple and readily available ingredients, was both nourishing and flavorful.
Over the years, Chicken Cacciatore evolved and adapted, becoming a beloved staple in Italian cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the magic of slow cooking resulted in a dish that captured the essence of traditional Italian cooking.
Today, Chicken Cacciatore continues to be a cherished classic, celebrated for its rich flavors and its ability to transport diners to the picturesque landscapes of Italy. With recipes like our Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, you can recreate this time-honored dish in your own kitchen, preserving the spirit of Italian tradition with every savory bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Skinless Chicken Thighs: These bone-in beauties bring a succulent texture and deep flavor to the dish, making each bite unforgettable.
- Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps to sear the chicken and infuse the dish with a luxurious taste.
- Aromatic Vegetables: Garlic, onion, red bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms add layers of flavor, color, and nutrition to the dish.
- Tomato Duo: A combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste forms the base of the rich sauce that envelops the chicken and veggies.
- Herb Medley: Dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme bring the authentic Italian taste to your plate.
- Kalamata Olives: These olives introduce a briny and slightly tangy element that balances out the dish.
- Leafy Greens: Chopped kale not only contributes to the nutritional value but also adds a vibrant touch to the final presentation.
- Cornstarch Slurry: A mixture of cornstarch and water helps to thicken the sauce to your preferred consistency. You can sub with tapioca starch or arrowroot starch if preferred.
- Fresh Herbs and Parmesan: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors and appearance of the dish.
Instructions: How to make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
- Season and Sear Chicken: Sprinkle chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until golden, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Create Vegetable Base: Add minced garlic, chopped onion, diced red bell peppers, sliced carrots, sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the slow cooker.
- Infuse with Herbs: Sprinkle dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then stir.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Let flavors meld and sauce develop.
- Add Finishing Touches: Mix in Kalamata olives, chopped kale, and a cornstarch-water mixture. Cook on high for 20-30 minutes until sauce thickens and kale wilts.
- Garnish and Adjust: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish out the hearty Chicken Cacciatore over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, pasta, or preferred sides. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Instant Pot Option: Express Delights
If the aroma of Chicken Cacciatore has you craving a quick feast, our Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore is perfect for you. Simply follow the same ingredient list and layer them in your Instant Pot. The result? A flavorful dish in a fraction of the time!
Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot and press the SAUTE button. Sear the chicken until you get a nice brown caramel coating. You may have to work in batches, depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Add the inner pot back to the pressure cooker and add more oil, if needed. Saute the garlic, onion, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Add the chicken back to the pot. Press CANCEL then cover with lid. Turn the valve to SEALING and press PRESSURE COOK HIGH (OR MANUAL – for older models).
Set the timer to 10 minutes.
Once the Instant Pot comes to pressure and cooks for 10 minutes, do a QUICK RELEASE.
Open the lid carefully and stir in the olives and kale.
OPTIONAL STEP: If you prefer a thicker stew, witch to SAUTE mode and stir in an arrow root starch slurry (or use xanthan gum for low carb) and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the stew bubbles and thickens up.
Tips for Success: Mastering Your Chicken Cacciatore
- For a richer sauce, consider adding chicken broth or water as suggested, especially if you prefer a saucier consistency.
- If time is of the essence, you can skip the browning step and directly add the chicken to your slow cooker.
- To make this recipe even more versatile, try adjusting the veggies based on your preferences. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and carrots can easily be swapped or supplemented with other veggies you love.
Storage and Freezer Instructions: Flavors That Last
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and enjoy the taste of Italy for up to 3 months.
How to reheat
- Stovetop Method: Place the desired amount of leftover Chicken Cacciatore in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once heated through, serve and enjoy.
- Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of Chicken Cacciatore to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with a vent. Heat in the microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated. Be cautious not to overcook, as this may cause the dish to dry out.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an oven-safe dish, ensuring it’s covered with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss. Heat in the oven until warmed to your liking, checking periodically to avoid overcooking.
Remember, when reheating, it’s a good idea to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain the dish’s moisture. After reheating, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions and Variations: Your Culinary Canvas
Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore hot over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, pasta, or your favorite sides. It’s a versatile dish that goes well with a range of accompaniments. And if you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations to consider:
- Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for seafood like shrimp or white fish to create a delectable seafood cacciatore.
- Veggie Delight: Opt for a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or extra veggies. You won’t miss out on the flavor!
- Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the dish’s richness.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Q: What is Chicken Cacciatore? A: Chicken Cacciatore, also known as “hunter-style chicken,” is a traditional Italian dish that hails from rustic kitchens. It features tender chicken simmered with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, and sometimes olives, resulting in a flavorful and hearty stew-like dish.
Q: Why is it called “Cacciatore”? A: The term “cacciatore” comes from the Italian word “caccia,” which means hunting. The dish is believed to have originated with Italian hunters who would prepare this flavorful meal after a day of hunting.
Q: Can I use other meats instead of chicken? A: Absolutely! While chicken is the most common protein in Chicken Cacciatore, you can experiment with other meats like rabbit or even pork.
Q: Is Chicken Cacciatore spicy? A: Traditional Chicken Cacciatore is not typically spicy. However, you can certainly add red pepper flakes or other spices if you prefer a spicier version.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Follow the same ingredient list, layer the ingredients, and cook under high pressure for about 15 minutes. Then do a quick release, and you’ll have a speedy version of this dish.
More slow cooker recipes you will love:
Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken and Vegetables
Easy Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is an easy crock pot meal loaded with tender chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, kale, carrots and sliced mushrooms. Comforting and delicious!
- 6 skinless chicken thighs , we used bone-in
- salt and black pepper . to taste
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- ½ medium white onion , chopped
- 1/4 cup diced red bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes , drained
- 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 Kalamata olives
- ½ cup chopped kale , washed, dried with stems removed
- 2 teaspoons arrowroot starch plus 3 teaspoons water whisked together in a small bowl (to thicken up sauce) - can also sub with tapioca starch or corn starch. For lower carb, sub with 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum.
- 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley plus more for serving
- Fresh basil leaves , for garnish (optional)
- grated Parmesan cheese , optional for serving
Season chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to slow cooker.
Alternatively, if pressed for time, skip browning and add chicken straight to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine. **(Do not worry if the mixture looks dry, the tomatoes will release more liquid as this cooks - if you like this dish saucier or soup-y - you can add ½ cup chicken broth or water)
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours.
30 minutes prior to serving, stir in the olives, kale and the whisked arrowroot starch/water slurry into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on HIGH, or until sauce thickens up slightly and kale is wilted.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley, basil leaves and taste and season with additional salt or black pepper, as needed.
- Serve hot over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, pasta or your favorite sides and top with grated parmesan, if desired.
Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot and press the SAUTE button. Sear the chicken until you get a nice brown caramel coating. You may have to work in batches, depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Add the inner pot back to the pressure cooker and add more oil, if needed. Saute the garlic, onion, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Add the chicken back to the pot. Press CANCEL then cover with lid. Turn the valve to SEALING and press PRESSURE COOK HIGH (OR MANUAL - for older models).
Set the timer to 10 minutes.
Once the Instant Pot comes to pressure and cooks for 10 minutes, do a QUICK RELEASE.
Open the lid carefully and stir in the olives and kale.
OPTIONAL STEP: If you prefer a thicker stew, switch to SAUTE mode and stir in an arrow root starch slurry (or use xanthan gum for low carb) and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the stew bubbles and thickens up.
How to store:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
How to freeze:
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and enjoy the taste of Italy for up to 3 months.
How to reheat:
Stovetop Method: Place the desired amount of leftover Chicken Cacciatore in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once heated through, serve and enjoy.
Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of Chicken Cacciatore to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with a vent. Heat in the microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated. Be cautious not to overcook, as this may cause the dish to dry out.
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an oven-safe dish, ensuring it's covered with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss. Heat in the oven until warmed to your liking, checking periodically to avoid overcooking.
Remember, when reheating, it's a good idea to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain the dish's moisture. After reheating, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Did you try this recipe?
MorgaN -
This is deLiciOus. We Have made it many Times and it is now my hUsBand’s favorite dinner. The recipe is perfect as it is. We serve it With orEcchiette pasta, which helps scoop uP all the goodness. We often add extra veggies by using a whole onion, whole bell pepper and 8 oz of Sliced mushrooms. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
Wendy -
Thank you! This was the best chicken! We look forward to making it more 🙂
Rachel -
So good! I made it with 3 chicken breasts which i then shredded. Added the extra Stock but didnt use cornflour as i like it with lots of juice. Served with french baguette and broccoli. Guests all had seconds.