Description
This Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken is a comforting meal that elevates your mood with authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Start by placing a skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil if you choose to sear the chicken. Searing isn’t mandatory, but it enhances the flavor profile significantly. Carefully add the chicken thighs to the hot skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely browned surface. Once done, set the chicken aside while prepping the slow cooker.
- Now comes the easy part! Place the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Then, add the minced garlic, sliced red onion, and diced bell pepper (if you’re using it). Spread the Italian seasoning over the top for a burst of flavor. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the tomato paste to create a thick, flavorful sauce. Lastly, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. For best results, cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to reach a tender state where it can be easily shredded with a fork. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F to ensure it’s safely cooked through.
- Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs and transfer it to a cutting board. With two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step allows the chicken to soak up even more of the delicious sauce when it’s returned to the slow cooker. After shredding, place the chicken back into the sauce and stir until well combined.
- Finally, stir in the freshly chopped basil, which adds a delightful brightness to the dish. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken over your favorite pasta, rice, or with crusty bread on the side for a heartwarming meal. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, making each plate a bit more indulgent.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, prepare the chicken the night before and let it marinate with the seasonings and herbs overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (without pasta)
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g