Step-by-step instructions
Sear the Chicken: Start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Sear the chicken breasts until they’re nicely browned on both sides—about 4-5 minutes per side should do the trick. This step enhances the flavor, giving your cacciatore a more complex taste.
Mix the Veggies: In your crockpot, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, sliced bell peppers, minced garlic, red wine, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything well.
Add the Chicken: Lay the seared chicken breasts directly on top of the vegetable mixture in the crockpot, allowing the juices to moisten the ingredients during cooking.
Set to Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen! Serve this delicious dish hot, paired with pasta for an authentic Italian experience or alongside crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving, think big and bold! A simple pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine is a classic pairing. Alternatively, consider serving this dish with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to brighten things up. For an extra dash of flavor, sprinkle with fresh basil or parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the cacciatore for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t Skip the Searing: While it may be tempting to skip searing the chicken, don’t! This step adds a fantastic depth of flavor to your dish.
- Wine Matters: Use a wine you would enjoy sipping on—it significantly impacts the sauce’s taste!
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, feel free to toss them in for a fragrance boost.
Creative twists
While the classic version of cacciatore is delicious, why not get creative? Substitute chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also add olives or capers for a Mediterranean flair. Experimenting with different vegetables based on what’s in season can lead to delightful new variations of this timeless dish.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore?
Preparation is quick—expect to spend about 15-20 minutes on chopping and searing. After that, it’s just a matter of letting the crockpot work its magic!
Can I substitute the red wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with chicken broth or even grape juice for a non-alcoholic version while still preserving some flavor.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers, but let them cool completely first. Package it in airtight containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer.
This Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting meal that provides warmth and joy with every bite. Happy cooking!
