Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 carrot, peeled and diced; 1 cup diced onion; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered; 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley; 8 chicken thighs (bone-in), skin removed; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 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 (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay); 28 ounce can San Marzano crushed tomatoes; Shredded Parmesan cheese (for garnish); 8 ounces cooked pasta (for serving)

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your family with happy smiles, you’ve gotta try this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out every single time—tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and those meaty mushrooms. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this recipe easy, satisfying, and perfect for those busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss. Keep reading, and I’ll share all my tips to help you nail it perfectly!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-Off Cooking: Pop everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you do other things.
Deep, Rustic Flavors: The slow simmer lets the herbs and mushrooms meld beautifully with the tomato sauce.
Perfectly Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs every time.
Family Favorite: This recipe has become a weekly staple in my house – comfort food that everyone loves.

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 with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs, Chicken Cacciatore, Italian slow cooker recipes, hearty chicken dinner, easy slow cooker chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together like a dream, creating a classic Italian-inspired sauce that’s both hearty and vibrant. When shopping, try to pick fresh veggies and good quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor punch.

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 with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs, Chicken Cacciatore, Italian slow cooker recipes, hearty chicken dinner, easy slow cooker chicken

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity, rich base for sautéing the veggies.
Carrot: Diced small so it softens quickly and adds subtle sweetness.
Onion: The aromatic backbone of the sauce – yellow or white both work well.
Minced garlic: Fresh is key here for that robust punch.
Tomato paste: This helps deepen the tomato flavor and gives richness.
Dried oregano: Classic Italian herb with earthy, piney notes.
Dried basil: Sweet and fragrant, pairs beautifully with oregano.
Red pepper flakes: Just a touch for a gentle warmth, but you can adjust to taste.
Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a nice background spice.
Dry white wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio both bring bright acidity to the sauce.
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed): I opt for bone-in for extra flavor and tenderness.
San Marzano crushed tomatoes: For their sweet, rich, and less acidic taste – a slow cooker hero.
Cremini mushrooms: Quartered for a hearty bite and earthiness.
Chopped Italian parsley: Fresh, for a bright finish.
Shredded Parmesan cheese: Optional garnish but truly makes every bite sing.
Cooked pasta: Like pappardelle or your favorite kind to serve the saucy goodness on.

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

I love making this Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe my own by playing around with the vegetables or proteins — it’s super flexible and forgiving, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Swap the chicken thighs for breasts: I tried this for a leaner version, but be careful not to overcook breast meat — reduce cooking time accordingly.
Add bell peppers: For a pop of color and sweetness, throw in sliced red or yellow peppers halfway through cooking.
Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat — my husband loves this twist!
Go dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan and add nutrition-packed kale or spinach in the last 15 minutes instead.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Build the Base

Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the diced carrot, onion, and minced garlic and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the veggies soften but don’t brown. This step unlocks the flavors and sets a great foundation for your sauce. Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, letting it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes—this toasts the spices and intensifies their aroma. Then pour in the dry white wine and bring that mixture to a gentle simmer. This deglazes the pan and adds depth you won’t believe.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken and Sauce Together

Place the bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed for less fat but you can leave it on if you like the crisp skin) in the slow cooker. Spoon the skillet mixture evenly over the chicken, then add the can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes on top. Seal the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. This patience lets all those ingredients meld and the chicken become irresistibly tender—like it melts right off the bone, trust me!

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Fresh Parsley

After the initial cook, stir in the quartered cremini mushrooms and chopped Italian parsley. Put the lid back on and cook for another 30 to 60 minutes on LOW, until the mushrooms soften but still hold their shape. This last step keeps the mushrooms from turning to mush and refreshes that herbal flavor.

Step 4: Serve with Pasta and Parmesan

When it’s ready, I like to ladle the chicken and sauce over a bed of your favorite cooked pasta — pappardelle or linguine work beautifully — then sprinkle with plenty of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. This final touch turns every forkful into a comforting, cheesy delight that will win you all the compliments.

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Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe

Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They add more flavor and stay juicier during slow cooking compared to breasts.
Don’t Skip Sautéing: Pre-cooking the veggies and tomato paste really ups the flavor game—it’s worth the few extra minutes.
Adjust Wine Amount If Needed: If you want a kid-friendly or non-alcoholic version, swap wine for chicken broth, but know it changes the depth slightly.
Add Mushrooms Late: Adding mushrooms too early can make them soggy; adding them near the end keeps their texture intact.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs 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 with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs, Chicken Cacciatore, Italian slow cooker recipes, hearty chicken dinner, easy slow cooker chicken

Garnishes

I always top each serving with a generous handful of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley. The cheese melts into the warm sauce and adds a salty tang that makes the dish feel extra special. If I’m feeling fancy, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top finishes it beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe is quite hearty on its own, I like to keep sides simple—think a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, or roasted garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Sometimes, I serve it alongside steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a boost of greens.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or dinner guests, I like to plate the chicken over freshly cooked pappardelle ribbons, garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for a pop of brightness. You can also serve it family-style right from the slow cooker, surrounded by bowls of pasta and grated cheese—a fun and inviting setup everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I let the leftovers cool completely, then store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps really well for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight—win-win!

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Chicken Cacciatore a few times with great results. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before cooking pasta, and it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the slow cooker to preserve texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This prevents drying out the chicken and helps the sauce regain that luscious silky texture. If pairing with pasta, cook it fresh to keep it from getting mushy.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just note that chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out in slow cookers. Cook on LOW for less time (around 3-4 hours) and check for doneness early to keep them tender.
Do I have to use wine in Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe?

While wine adds depth and acidity to the sauce, you can replace it with chicken broth or even water if you want a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious with the herbs and tomatoes.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too watery after slow cooking?

If the sauce seems thin, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, stir in a small cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe in the morning and cook all day?

Absolutely! This is one of the best slow cooker recipes for busy days. Just prep in the morning, set to LOW for 4 to 5 hours, add mushrooms and parsley toward the end, and dinner’s ready when you walk in the door.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms and Italian Herbs Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate for me. It’s become my go-to when I want something comforting, impressive, and surprisingly easy. I think you’ll appreciate how the layers of flavor work together effortlessly, and how it fills your home with cozy vibes. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite in your kitchen too—I’m rooting for your cooking success!