This Lightened-Up Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty yet healthy dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a no-fuss recipe perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends. Comforting, flavorful, and wholesome, it’s a family-friendly classic with a modern twist.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Layer Ingredients Properly: Place firmer veggies like carrots and bell peppers on the bottom for even cooking.
- Sear for Extra Flavor: Browning the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor, but you can skip this step for convenience.
- Customize Veggies: Add your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to make it your own.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure there’s enough room for the sauce to circulate around the chicken.
- Serve with Options: Pair with whole-grain pasta, brown rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who crave comfort food without the guilt. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, filling your home with tantalizing aromas as it simmers away. Every bite of this chicken cacciatore is packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a luscious tomato-based sauce. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for meal prep or a special family dinner.
Lightened-Up Chicken Cacciatore
A wholesome crockpot chicken cacciatore, combining tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich tomato sauce for a guilt-free comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in) or breasts
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup pitted olives (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop all vegetables and mince garlic. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes.
- Layer the Crockpot: Add onions, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms to the bottom of the crockpot. Place the chicken on top.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the chicken. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and olives if using.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Discard the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Use fresh herbs as a garnish for an extra pop of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 287Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 81mgSodium 319mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 3gSugar 5gProtein 23g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Use skinless, bone-in thighs for extra flavor or swap for breasts for a leaner option.
- Tomatoes: Crushed or diced canned tomatoes provide a robust base; fire-roasted adds smoky depth.
- Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms contribute to the dish’s hearty texture and sweetness.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic, and bay leaves infuse the sauce with earthy, aromatic flavors.
- Olives (Optional): Add a briny kick with Kalamata or green olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey, pork chops, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the starchy sides and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can sprinkle vegan Parmesan for a cheesy touch.
- Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace dried Italian seasoning for a garden-fresh flavor.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep: Assemble raw ingredients in a freezer bag, freeze, and dump into the crockpot when ready to cook.
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