Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore Recipe - Authentic Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 7-9 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is a delicious and hearty Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and full of flavor, making it a great option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

History

Chicken Cacciatore, also known as "hunter-style chicken," is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Renaissance period. The dish was originally made with game meat, such as rabbit or pheasant, that was cooked with tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken as the main protein, making it a popular and versatile dish in Italian cuisine.

Ingredients

3 – 4 lb (1.81 kg) boneless/skinless thighs and breasts
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 large red or green bell peppers, sliced
3 cloves garlic, crushed
0.5 tsp each basil and oregano
1 (6 oz (170 g)) can tomato paste
fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 bay leaves
1 x 8 oz (227 g) can stewed tomatoes with chilies
salt and pepper to taste
2 cup burgundy wine
parmesan cheese, for sprinkling before serving

How to prepare

Place the sliced onions on the bottom of the crock pot.
Add the chicken.
Stir together the remaining ingredients and pour them over the chicken.
Cook on low for 7 – 9 hours or on high for 3 – 4 hours.
Serve over pasta, with a side salad.
Enjoy.

Variations

Add olives or capers for a briny flavor.
Use different vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken drumsticks for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the crockpot.

- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste, such as fresh oregano and basil.

- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.

- Serve the Chicken Cacciatore over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Cacciatore over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken drumsticks or thighs instead of boneless/skinless chicken breasts.

- Substitute red wine for the burgundy wine.

- Use canned diced tomatoes instead of stewed chilies.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the crockpot and let it cook throughout the day.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Cacciatore in a large serving dish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Chicken Cacciatore with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

Vitamin C: 80% DV

Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a balanced meal that is rich in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying dinner.

Summary

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal at home and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the tender chicken, savory sauce, and hearty vegetables in this delicious dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and I always loved to watch her work her magic in the kitchen.

On that particular day, Maria was busy preparing a delicious meal for her family. As I watched her chop vegetables, brown chicken, and add in herbs and spices, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the scent wafting through the kitchen. The aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and basil filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Curious, I asked Maria what she was making. With a smile, she told me she was making her family's favorite dish - Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore. She explained that it was a traditional Italian dish that her grandmother had passed down to her, and she was happy to share the recipe with me.

As Maria continued to cook, she walked me through the steps of making the dish. She explained how the crockpot allowed the flavors to meld together slowly, creating a rich and savory sauce that coated the tender chicken perfectly. She showed me how to layer the ingredients, starting with the chicken, then adding in the tomatoes, vegetables, and herbs. She even shared with me some secret tips and tricks that her grandmother had taught her over the years.

After a few hours of simmering in the crockpot, the Chicken Cacciatore was finally ready. Maria served it over a bed of creamy polenta, and we all gathered around the table to enjoy the meal together. The first bite was a revelation - the chicken was perfectly cooked, the sauce was bursting with flavor, and every bite was a taste of Italy.

From that day on, Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family, friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to come over for dinner. Over the years, I've tweaked the recipe here and there, adding in my own personal touches and variations. But the core of the dish remains the same - tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and a medley of vegetables and herbs.

I've made Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore for countless dinner parties, family gatherings, and special occasions. It's a dish that never fails to impress, and I always get requests for the recipe. I'm happy to share it with anyone who asks, just as Maria shared it with me all those years ago.

As I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore for dinner tonight, I can't help but think back to that warm summer day with Maria. Her generosity, her skill in the kitchen, and her love for her family all shine through in this recipe. And every time I make it, I feel a connection to her, to her grandmother, and to the generations of cooks who have passed down their wisdom and recipes through the years.

So as the savory scent of tomatoes, garlic, and basil fills my kitchen once again, I say a silent thank you to Maria, to her grandmother, and to all the cooks who have inspired me along the way. And I look forward to sharing this delicious dish with my own family, creating new memories and traditions for generations to come.