Traditional Hunter-Style Chicken

πŸ•’ Prep: 20 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
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If you're looking for a recipe that combines rustic flavors with the comfort of slow cooking, this Traditional Hunter-Style Chicken is perfect for you. With its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken, it's a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients for Traditional Hunter-Style Chicken

Chicken thighs are the star of this dish, providing a rich flavor and tender texture. Season them with salt and black pepper to enhance the taste. Olive oil is used for browning, adding a hint of fruitiness. Onion and garlic lay the aromatic foundation, while red and green bell peppers contribute a sweet crunch. Mushrooms add an earthy flavor that complements the chicken. A splash of dry white wine helps deglaze the pan and adds acidity. The richness of crushed tomatoes forms the sauce base, seasoned with oregano and thyme for an herby touch. Chicken broth enhances the sauce's depth, while capers introduce a briny note. Finally, fresh basil adds a burst of freshness at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight with the salt and pepper.
  • Deglazing the pan is crucial β€” never skip this step for maximum flavor extraction.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that lovely sauce. A simple green salad on the side would also complement the rich flavors of the chicken perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier during slow cooking.
What can I use instead of white wine?
Chicken broth or apple cider vinegar can substitute for white wine if needed.

Traditional Hunter-Style Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. This simple step makes all the difference in flavor. Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, brown the chicken on all sides. You don’t need to cook it through, just get a nice golden color. Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker.

In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onion, minced garlic, and both red and green bell peppers. Add the mushrooms as well. Stir everything together for about 5 minutes, just until the veggies begin to soften. This step is essential for building the base flavors.

Next, pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits β€” that's where the flavor hides! Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir everything well, then pour this fragrant mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours if you're in a hurry. About 30 minutes before the end, stir in the capers and fresh basil. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. And that's it β€” your home will be filled with the irresistible aroma of this hearty dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have.
  • The slow cooker does most of the work while you're free to do other things.
  • Deep, savory flavors thanks to the combination of herbs, wine, and tomatoes.
  • Perfect for meal prep β€” tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

2.5 lbs bone-in chicken thighs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup capers
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; brown chicken on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, sautΓ© onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir well and pour over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add capers and fresh basil. Stir well and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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