Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker chicken cacciatore that tastes like a traditional Italian comfort meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken thighs slowly simmer with bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to create a flavor-packed crockpot chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family meals.
This healthy slow cooker chicken recipe is naturally dairy-free, high in protein, and loaded with vegetables. Just layer everything into your crockpot, let it cook low and slow, and come back to a rich, savory sauce that tastes homemade and authentic.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:
Easy dump-and-go crockpot recipe minimal prep and hands-off cooking
Healthy Italian chicken dinner packed with peppers and tomatoes
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers flavors get even better the next day
Budget-friendly ingredients with restaurant-style results
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free (serve with your favorite sides)
Ingredients:
2½ to 3 pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed or diced tomatoes
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions:
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with half of the salt and the black pepper. Removing the skin helps keep the sauce lighter and less greasy.
Place the seasoned chicken in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the sliced onions and colorful bell peppers over the top to create a flavorful vegetable base.
In a bowl, whisk together tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, remaining salt, oregano, basil, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Add the bay leaf.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken becomes tender and infused with Italian herb flavor.
Remove the bay leaf and stir in balsamic vinegar for extra brightness if desired. Spoon the juicy chicken and pepper-tomato sauce over pasta, rice, or polenta and garnish with fresh herbs.
Serving Ideas for This Italian Chicken Crockpot Recipe:
Serve this slow cooker chicken cacciatore with peppers over:
Steamed rice or creamy polenta
Whole-wheat pasta for a healthier option
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
A fresh green salad with vinaigrette for balance
Expert Tips & Variations:
Boneless thighs: Reduce cooking time slightly for a faster crockpot dinner.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, olives, or spinach for more traditional flavor.
Thicker sauce: Remove the lid during the last 20 minutes to reduce liquid naturally.
Kid-friendly version: Use only sweet bell peppers and skip red pepper flakes.
Meal Prep & Storage:
This easy slow cooker Italian chicken recipe stores beautifully. Let leftovers cool completely, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to keep the sauce silky.
