Name: Hearty Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488628H28M35S
Total time: PT-488628H28M35S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb chicken (2 thighs, 2 drumsticks); 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped (fresh or frozen); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano

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There’s something so comforting about a rustic Italian dish simmering away all afternoon, and this Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore has become one of my go-to dinners. I love how it feels special enough for a Sunday meal but is simple enough to throw together on a busy weekday morning. The rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, peppers, and herbs filling my kitchen makes it nearly impossible to wait until dinner.

Hearty Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy how tender the chicken turns out after slow cooking—it practically falls off the bone and soaks up all the delicious sauce. I usually serve it with pasta, rice, or a crusty loaf of bread, and it’s always a hit at the table. What I like even more is how flexible it is. Sometimes I toss in extra mushrooms, or I keep it lighter with a simple side salad. On busy nights, letting the crockpot do all the work feels like a lifesaver.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 lb chicken (2 thighs, 2 drumsticks)
1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (fresh or frozen)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano

Directions

Sprinkle the chicken with salt and paprika. (Optional: Sear the chicken in olive oil for 4–5 minutes per side for extra flavor.)
In the crockpot, combine all ingredients except the chicken and stir to mix.
Add the chicken, turning it to coat in the sauce. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 3 hours to cook in the crockpot on high. If I want to set it in the morning, I cook it on low for 6–7 hours.

Variations

I sometimes swap in boneless thighs or chicken breasts if that’s what I have on hand. Extra veggies like zucchini, carrots, or olives add even more flavor. When I want a touch of heat, I’ll sprinkle in red pepper flakes. For a richer taste, I stir in fresh basil or a splash of red wine. I’ve also enjoyed serving it over polenta instead of pasta, which makes it extra cozy.

storage/reheating

I usually keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and I’ve noticed the flavors get even better the next day. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. This dish also freezes well—perfect for meal prep. I just portion it into airtight containers, freeze, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I like prepping the veggies and sauce the night before, then I just add the chicken in the morning and let the crockpot do the rest.

Can I cook this on low instead of high?

Definitely. I often set it to low for 6–7 hours when I want it ready after a workday.

Do I have to sear the chicken first?

No, I usually skip this step when I’m short on time, but searing adds a deeper flavor if I have a few minutes to spare.

What’s the best way to serve it?

I love it over spaghetti or rice, but mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread are just as good.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this freezes beautifully. I store it in airtight containers, thaw it in the fridge, and reheat it when I need a quick meal.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is hearty, flavorful, and so easy to put together. I love how versatile it is and how it always feels like a comforting, home-cooked meal. Whether I’m serving it over pasta, rice, or just with bread, it always brings everyone to the table ready to eat. It’s definitely a recipe I’ll keep coming back to.