Name: Crockpot Italian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 can diced tomatoes; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; 3 cloves garlic; 1 bay leaf bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 small red onion; Shredded mozzarella cheese (for serving); Thinly sliced fresh basil (for serving)

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When I think of cozy winter meals, Crockpot Italian Chicken immediately comes to mind. The aroma of tender chicken simmering with rich tomatoes and a hint of balsamic vinegar fills the air, wrapping the house in warmth and comfort. Picture coming home after a long day to find a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you, ready to be shared with family and friends. There’s something profoundly satisfying about letting the slow cooker do all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. This dish has become a staple in our home, especially on chilly nights when all you want is a filling, flavorful meal. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kids couldn’t get enough of it, and neither could I! The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Italian Chicken, it will quickly become one of your favorites too.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
180 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
50 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

The Appeal of This Crockpot Italian Chicken

Simple and Delicious

One of the reasons I adore this Crockpot Italian Chicken recipe is its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The combination of chicken, balsamic vinegar, and tomatoes brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just having a quiet night in, the Crockpot Italian Chicken is a hit with everyone. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a comforting weeknight dinner.

Timing is Everything

Another thing I love is how it fits into a busy lifestyle. You can prep everything in the morning, set your slow cooker, and forget about it. When you return home, you’ll be greeted by the enticing smell of a home-cooked meal that’s ready and waiting for you.

Leftovers for Days

Let’s talk about leftovers! The Crockpot Italian Chicken tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it perfect for lunch or dinner the following day. You can easily transform it into sandwiches or toss it with pasta for a quick meal.

Healthy and Nutritious

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken is a great source of protein, while the tomatoes and fresh herbs provide necessary vitamins and minerals. It’s a meal you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Italian Chicken

When it comes to making the Crockpot Italian Chicken, the ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly flavorful. Each element plays a key role in creating a dish that’s heartwarming and satisfying. You’ll find that the combination of these ingredients not only works well together but also brings out the best flavors.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the ingredients before slow cooking.
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs: The main protein, tender and juicy after cooking.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces): Provides a rich, tangy base for the sauce.
½ cup balsamic vinegar: Contributes a unique sweetness and acidity.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle layer of flavor.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the Italian elements of the dish.
1 small red onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For serving, it melts beautifully over the chicken.
Thinly sliced fresh basil: A fresh garnish that brightens the dish.

The Method for Crockpot Italian Chicken

Making the Crockpot Italian Chicken is a breeze. Once you gather your ingredients, it’s all about layering and letting the slow cooker work its magic. Here’s how you can create this comforting meal in just a few simple steps:

Start by drizzling olive oil into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and add flavor.
Next, place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the oil. Sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper over the chicken evenly. This step ensures that the chicken is well-seasoned right from the start.
In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, garlic, bay leaf, dried basil, and diced onion. Stir these ingredients together until they’re well mixed.
Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that it covers the meat completely. This creates a flavorful bath for the chicken as it cooks.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid, and set it to low. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, which should take around one and a half to two and a half hours for breasts or four to five hours for thighs. It’s important to keep an eye on the temperature; the chicken should reach 155 degrees F.
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and cover it. Let it rest for about five to ten minutes. During this time, the juices will redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
While the chicken rests, keep the slow cooker on to keep the sauce warm. This ensures that the sauce is ready to serve with the chicken.
After resting, uncover the chicken and use a slotted spoon to scoop the tomato-balsamic sauce over the chicken. This way, each piece is generously coated with the delicious sauce.
To finish, top the chicken with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. The cheese will melt slightly from the heat of the chicken, adding a creamy texture.
Serve the Crockpot Italian Chicken immediately, and enjoy this comforting dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: It’s essential to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165 degrees F for safe consumption.
Flavor Development: The longer you cook the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Just be careful not to overcook it.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Herbs: You can experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor twist.

Helpful Notes about Crockpot Italian Chicken

Here are some helpful notes to ensure you get the best out of your Crockpot Italian Chicken:

Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a microwave-safe container until heated through.
Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations: Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Serving Options for Crockpot Italian Chicken

When it comes to serving your Crockpot Italian Chicken, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas:

Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian meal.
Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce!
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this Crockpot Italian Chicken recipe. However, you should adjust the cooking time. It’s recommended to cook frozen chicken on low for about 6 to 8 hours to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F before serving.

This dish is incredibly versatile! You can serve Crockpot Italian Chicken over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad or roasted vegetables also complements the meal very well. It’s perfect for any occasion!

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar. Both options will provide a different flavor profile but will still be delicious. Just keep in mind that balsamic vinegar adds a unique sweetness, so you might want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

To store leftovers of your Crockpot Italian Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

The Crockpot Italian Chicken is a dish that perfectly combines convenience and flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give it a go and experience the comforting taste that this recipe brings to the table. You won’t regret making this heartwarming meal that will surely become a family favorite.