Description
Tender slow-cooked chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fragrant herbs. This comforting and hearty Chicken Cacciatore is easy to prepare and perfect for a flavorful, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Optional: Sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown to enhance flavor.
- Place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- Optional: Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Searing the chicken adds deeper flavor but can be skipped to save time.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or olives for extra vegetables and flavor.
To thicken the sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg