I first stumbled across Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore during a lazy Sunday. The rain was tapping on the windows, and I was looking for a recipe that wouldn’t demand too much attention but still packed a punch in flavor. I wanted something hearty and comforting, but I also didn’t want to be tied to the stove for hours. That’s when I found this recipe – a perfect blend of simplicity and depth, and it became an instant favorite in my house.
As I dug deeper into the recipe, I realized this wasn’t just any chicken stew. It’s a slow-cooked masterpiece that relies on fresh ingredients, the magic of long cooking times, and the balance of bold flavors. If you’ve got a slow cooker or crockpot at home, you’re in for a treat.
Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Jamie’s version of Chicken Cacciatore isn’t like your standard chicken stew. It’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, and the slow cooker makes it so easy. Imagine the sweetness of tomatoes, the earthiness of olives, the tanginess of capers, and tender chicken that practically falls apart after hours of slow cooking.
- Total time: 6-8 hours on low
- Serves: 4-6 people
This recipe is all about building flavor and using the slow cooker to do most of the work. You start by layering the ingredients and letting the cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
Ingredients Needed
What I love about this recipe is that the ingredients are basic, yet each one plays an important role. When I first made it, I was surprised by how much flavor came from so few things.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (4-6 pieces): This gives the dish a rich flavor, and the slow cooking helps break the meat down beautifully.
- Olive oil (for browning the chicken): Jamie Oliver’s Italian-inspired dishes always use good olive oil to enhance flavor.
- Red onions (2 medium): They bring a sweet, savory base to the sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves): A must for depth and aroma.
- Red peppers (2 large): Sweet and slightly tangy, they complement the tomatoes.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 pint): Fresh and juicy to give the dish some brightness.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): To thicken the sauce and intensify the flavor.
- Black olives (1/2 cup): Salty and briny, they’re a key part of the flavor profile.
- Capers (2 tablespoons): A sharp, briny punch that works perfectly with the olives.
- Red wine (1/2 cup): For richness, but you can use chicken stock as a substitute.
- Fresh herbs: Basil, oregano, and rosemary – they’re the backbone of the flavor.
When I first put it all together, I realized how important the balance of salty, sweet, and acidic flavors is in this dish. The slow cooking really allows the ingredients to meld and create that signature richness.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Now, here’s the beauty of this recipe. You don’t need to babysit it. The slow cooker takes care of everything. Let’s break it down:
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Prep The Chicken
- Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is crucial to develop a rich flavor, but don’t worry if you don’t get them fully cooked.
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Build The Flavor Base
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped red onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Toss in the chopped red peppers and cook them for a couple of minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook it out for a minute or two to deepen the flavors.
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Layer Everything In The Slow Cooker
- Add the browned chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Pour in the sautéed onion and pepper mixture. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, black olives, capers, and herbs.
- Pour in the red wine (or chicken stock), season with salt and pepper, and give it a gentle stir.
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Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The longer you leave it, the more the flavors intensify. By the end, the chicken will be fall-apart tender and the sauce rich and flavorful.
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Finishing Touches
- Before serving, check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One of the things I find fascinating about this recipe is how each ingredient interacts over time. Let’s take a closer look:
- Chicken Thighs: Unlike chicken breasts, thighs are fattier and have more collagen. When slow-cooked, the collagen breaks down, making the meat tender and juicy. The fat also helps carry the flavors of the sauce into the chicken.
- Olives and Capers: Both are packed with salt and brine. As they cook slowly, they infuse the dish with umami – that savory depth that makes the sauce so addictive.
- Red Wine: It not only adds complexity, but the acid in the wine helps balance out the richness of the chicken and olives. Over slow cooking, the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a subtle sweetness.
- Tomatoes: The slow cooking intensifies their sweetness and umami, creating a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Browning: The initial browning of the chicken creates a layer of flavor that slow cooking can’t replicate. It’s worth the extra step.
- Layer the Flavors: If you don’t have all the herbs or ingredients, improvise. Fresh thyme or parsley works just as well as rosemary, and if you’re out of red wine, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a similar depth.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Boneless chicken can dry out faster in a slow cooker. The bone helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor to the sauce.
- Cook Low and Slow: Resist the urge to crank up the heat. Low and slow cooking is what makes this recipe so flavorful.
Recipe Variations
I’ve tried a few twists on Jamie’s version. Here are some variations I’d recommend:
- Mushroom Madness: Add a handful of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for an earthy addition.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or a sliced fresh chili pepper.
- Olive Lovers: Increase the amount of olives and capers for an even saltier, brinier experience.
- Chicken Legs: If you prefer drumsticks, they work just as well in this recipe. The meat is a little more firm, but it still absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Final Words
This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore is the kind of recipe you can make when you want comfort without a lot of effort. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packs all the punch of a traditional Italian stew. Every bite is filled with the rich, tangy sauce and tender chicken, making it the kind of dish you’ll return to over and over.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
It takes about 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat in the slow cooker.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Thighs For This Recipe?
Yes, but chicken thighs work best as they stay moist during slow cooking.
What Can I Serve With Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore?
You can serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.