Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic, slow-cooked chicken stew made with bone-in chicken thighs, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and fragrant herbs. The slow cooker method enhances the flavors by allowing the ingredients to simmer gently, resulting in tender chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 420
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (6-8): Bone-in and skin-on for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped, providing sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves (4): Minced, for an aromatic flavor.
- Bell peppers (2, mixed colors): Sliced, for a sweet, fresh flavor.
- Canned tomatoes (400g / 14 oz): Crushed or diced, forming the base of the sauce.
- Chicken stock (250ml / 1 cup): Adds flavor and moisture.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Olives (a handful): Optional, for a briny contrast.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic Italian herb.
- Bay leaves (2): Adds depth of flavor to the stew.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 4-5 minutes per side, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Assemble the Cacciatore:
- Add the remaining ingredients: Pour the canned tomatoes, chicken stock, tomato paste, olives, oregano, and bay leaves into the slow cooker. Stir everything together.
- Season: Add more salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook in the Slow Cooker:
- Set the slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
4. Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.