Question

How do you make chicken cacciatore in a slow cooker?

Answer 1

Making chicken cacciatore in a slow cooker is a convenient and delicious way to prepare this classic Italian dish. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), sliced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides until it develops a golden crust. This step adds flavor to the chicken and prevents it from becoming too soft in the slow cooker. Once browned, transfer the chicken pieces to the slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and sliced bell pepper until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

4. Deglaze the skillet with the red wine (if using), scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for a minute or two.

5. Pour the sautéed vegetables and wine (if using) over the chicken in the slow cooker.

6. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.

7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when done.

8. Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

9. Serve the chicken cacciatore over cooked pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful and tender chicken cacciatore made effortlessly in the slow cooker!