If you're looking for a comforting, savory dish with a bright twist, this Crock Pot Citrus Chicken Cacciatore is just the ticket. The classic Italian flavors are enhanced with a citrusy splash that makes it both unique and unforgettable. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Chicken thighs are the heart of this dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness. The bone-in variety helps to deepen the flavor as it cooks. Olive oil adds a smooth, rich base for browning the chicken. Onion and bell peppers bring sweetness and depth, while garlic adds that quintessential Italian aroma. Crushed tomatoes form the saucy base, with chicken broth adding depth and moisture. The real stars are the orange juice and lemon juice, which lift the dish with their bright acidity. A spoonful of tomato paste thickens the sauce, and the herbs—oregano and basil—enhance the Italian vibe. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a gentle kick, balanced by salt and pepper. Finally, parsley and kalamata olives offer a fresh and briny burst in every bite.
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of creamy polenta or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
Start by heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on all sides; this takes about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden and crispy, not cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to your crock pot.
In the same pan, toss in your sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions are translucent and the peppers are soft, which should take another 5 minutes. This step builds a flavor base and ensures the vegetables meld beautifully into the sauce.
Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the crock pot with the chicken. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, orange juice, and lemon juice. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Set your crock pot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You'll know it's ready when the chicken is fork-tender and the flavors have melded into a fragrant sauce. Just before serving, stir in the fresh parsley and kalamata olives for a final burst of color and flavor.
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