Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 carrot, peeled and diced; 1 cup diced onion; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon salt; Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay); 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin removed; 28 ounce can San Marzano crushed tomatoes; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered; 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley; Shredded Parmesan cheese (for garnish); 8 ounces cooked pasta (for serving)

If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, it’s this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe. It’s such a crowd-pleaser and ridiculously easy to make. I love this recipe because it turns simple ingredients into a rich, savory, and comforting Italian classic with almost no fuss. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it over and over, especially on cozy weekend nights when you want dinner waiting for you without standing over the stove.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Slow Cooking: Just prep, set, and forget while flavors develop beautifully over hours.
Tender Chicken Every Time: The thighs come out juicy and melt-in-your-mouth thanks to slow cooking.
Rich, Authentic Flavors: A perfect blend of tomatoes, herbs, and mushrooms with a subtle hint of wine.
Family Favorite: My loved ones always ask for seconds, making it great for gatherings or weeknight meals.

A white bowl holds three main layers: the bottom layer is a bed of thin, pale yellow spaghetti noodles, slightly tangled; the middle layer is a rich, chunky red tomato sauce with visible pieces of cooked mushrooms and finely diced orange carrots; the top layer is a light sprinkle of white grated cheese and small green parsley leaves scattered across the dish for color contrast, with a larger parsley sprig placed at the back. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface, with a blurred glass of pale white liquid and bread rolls visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, Chicken Cacciatore recipe, Italian chicken stew, easy slow cooker chicken, comforting chicken dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe works in harmony to create that hearty, rustic flavor. When shopping, look for fresh herbs and good-quality chicken thighs – removing the skin helps keep the dish lighter without sacrificing moisture.

Flat lay of fresh chicken thighs with skin removed, bright orange diced carrot, quartered cremini mushrooms, a heap of chopped Italian parsley, a rich swirl of San Marzano crushed tomatoes, a spoonful of bright red tomato paste, sprigs of dried oregano and basil, and a small pile of shredded Parmesan cheese, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, Chicken Cacciatore recipe, Italian chicken stew, easy slow cooker chicken, comforting chicken dinner

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a lovely depth and helps soften your veggies at the start.
Carrot: Diced small to cook evenly – it adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tomatoes.
Diced onion: Use yellow or white for a mild, natural sweetness.
Minced garlic: The aroma of garlic infuses every bite – fresh is best here.
Tomato paste: Boosts the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that pairs perfectly with basil.
Dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic note essential to cacciatore.
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to add a gentle kick; adjust to your heat preference.
Salt and pepper: Season carefully – you can add more later if needed.
Dry white wine: I usually grab a Sauvignon Blanc for its crispness, but any dry white works.
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed): Moist, flavorful pieces that stay tender in the slow cooker.
San Marzano crushed tomatoes: They’re a game-changer for their sweet, rich flavor and smooth texture.
Cremini mushrooms: Quartered and added near the end for a tender bite and earthy depth.
Chopped Italian parsley: Freshness brightens the entire dish.
Shredded Parmesan cheese: For garnish – adds a salty, nutty finish every time.
Cooked pasta: Serve the cacciatore over your favorite noodles for that perfect plate.

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Feel free to tweak it depending on what you have on hand or your dietary needs—you’ll never feel limited by this classic.

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs: I’ve tried this for a leaner version; just reduce slow cooking time to keep breasts from drying out.
Make it spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or even some chopped fresh chili for a serious kick that my spice-loving friends adore.
Add bell peppers: I sometimes toss in sliced red or yellow peppers with the mushrooms for a colorful, sweet crunch.
Go dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan garnish or swap with nutritional yeast—not quite the same, but still tasty.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies and Toast the Flavors

Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the diced carrots, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften but still hold their shape. This step is key because it builds the flavor foundation before everything goes into the slow cooker. Add in the tomato paste, dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, stirring well. Let this cook for another 1-2 minutes so those spices toast a bit—it totally changes the depth of flavor. Then pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer, just until the alcohol cooks off and the mixture melds together.

Step 2: Assemble and Slow Cook

Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spoon that fragrant veggie and wine mixture over the top. Next, add the crushed tomatoes right on top. Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for 4 to 5 hours. You’re looking for the chicken to be perfectly tender and cooked through but not falling apart. This slow cooking timeframe is just right to develop so much flavor without drying out the meat.

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Fresh Herbs

After the chicken is cooked, stir in your quartered cremini mushrooms and the freshly chopped Italian parsley. Cover it again and cook for another 30 to 60 minutes on LOW. This allows the mushrooms to soften nicely without becoming mushy. The parsley adds a fresh, bright note that lifts the entire dish in the final moments.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Scoop up generous portions of this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore onto plates piled with cooked pasta. I personally love thick spaghetti, but penne or pappardelle work beautifully, too. Don’t forget to pile on shredded Parmesan cheese—my family goes crazy for that salty finish. If you want, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top makes it look as good as it tastes.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Brown the chicken first: I sometimes quickly brown the thighs in a hot pan before slow cooking—it adds extra flavor and color, though it’s optional.
Don’t skip toasting the tomato paste: That short step of cooking the paste with herbs really deepens the sauce’s taste, so I always do it.
Choose your wine wisely: A dry white wine with good acidity helps balance the tomato’s natural sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Avoid overcooking mushrooms: Adding them late keeps their texture intact—mushrooms cooked too long get mushy and lose that meaty bite.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

A white bowl filled with a bed of yellow spaghetti noodles forms the bottom layer, topped with red tomato sauce mixed with dark brown mushroom pieces and a piece of cooked white meat covered in sauce at the center. White shredded cheese is sprinkled lightly over the sauce and meat, and a small green parsley sprig sits on top for garnish. A golden brown breadstick lies diagonally on the left edge of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a metal fork resting inside the bowl on the right side, partially under the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, Chicken Cacciatore recipe, Italian chicken stew, easy slow cooker chicken, comforting chicken dinner

Garnishes

For me, nothing finishes off this dish better than a generous mound of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley or fresh basil. These little touches add great flavor, color, and a hint of freshness against the slow-cooked sauce’s richness.

Side Dishes

I often serve the cacciatore with simple garlic bread or a crisp green salad to keep things balanced. Sometimes, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus make a lovely seasonal side. You want something with fresh crunch or buttery softness to play against the tomato-laden chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I’ve served this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore in individual shallow bowls with polenta instead of pasta for a rich and elegant twist. It’s also nice spooned over creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy winter meal that feels extra indulgent. Sometimes I even drizzle a little basil-infused olive oil on top before serving—makes it look gourmet!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers taste even better the next day. Just make sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to keep it fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes really well. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and it’s ready to thaw any night when you want a comforting meal fast. Freeze before cooking chicken if prepping early, or cook everything first and freeze in portions. Either way, it reheats beautifully without losing moisture.

Reheating

I reheat leftover Chicken Cacciatore gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if it looks dry. This helps maintain the tender texture of the chicken and keeps the sauce luscious. Microwave works too in a pinch, but stirring occasionally prevents uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily during slow cooking. To prevent this, reduce the cooking time by about an hour and consider using bone-in breasts for more moisture. Alternatively, poach the breasts gently before adding them to the slow cooker.
Do I have to use wine in the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe?

While wine adds a lovely depth and acidity, you can swap it for low-sodium chicken broth or even water with a splash of lemon juice if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Just be sure to maintain the liquid level in the slow cooker for proper cooking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. You can make it completely a day ahead and reheat gently before serving. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
What’s the best pasta to serve with Chicken Cacciatore?

Traditional choices include thick spaghetti, pappardelle, or penne, which hold up well to the hearty sauce. However, you can use any pasta you like—fusilli, rigatoni, or even wide egg noodles are great options. It’s really about what you and your family enjoy.
How do I avoid mushy vegetables in the slow cooker?

I add the mushrooms toward the end of cooking to keep their texture firm yet tender. For other vegetables, either sauté them beforehand or add at different stages depending on how soft you want them. This technique really keeps your dish balanced and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like magic: a simple set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills your kitchen with amazing smells and delivers rich, comforting flavors every time. I’ve made it countless times for family dinners and my guests always rave about it. If you’re looking for a reliable recipe that’s both easy and impressive, this one’s a real winner. Give it a try and settle in for a delicious, cozy meal—you won’t regret it!