Crock-Pot Chicken Cacciatore
A hearty slow-cooked chicken cacciatore with rich tomato sauce, herbs, and wine, perfect for comforting family dinners served over spaghetti.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chicken in oil and drain.
- In the slow cooker, combine chicken, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red wine.
- Cook on low for 5 to 7 hours.
- Serve over hot cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast. Using low-sodium tomato sauce helps control sodium levels. For a quicker alternative, check out Microwave Chicken Cacciatore, which can be prepared in just 34 to 40 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cacciatore over a bed of hot cooked spaghetti for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to enhance the Italian flavors. For a complete experience, consider a glass of dry red wine, which complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions on medium power until heated, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Chicken Cacciatore contains roughly 1538 calories, with 23g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (349% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2462mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours to ensure it's fully cooked and tender.
What if I don’t have dry red wine?
If you don't have dry red wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic option. This will still add flavor to the dish, though the taste will vary slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken Cacciatore can be made a day ahead. Just let it cool and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat as needed for a hassle-free meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).