Slow cooker Italian chicken is a convenient and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort. This recipe takes advantage of the slow cooker’s gentle heat to infuse the chicken with the aromatic flavors of Italian herbs and spices, creating a tender and delicious meal.
To prepare slow cooker Italian chicken, bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, are often used for their juiciness and flavor. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, along with garlic, onion, and other aromatic ingredients. These herbs and spices infuse the chicken with their delightful fragrance as it slowly cooks. In addition to the herbs and spices, a rich tomato sauce is an essential component of slow cooker Italian chicken. Tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, or crushed tomatoes are typically used to create a flavorful and tangy base for the dish. The chicken cooks slowly in this tomato-infused sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and succulent.
The slow cooker method is ideal for busy schedules or when you want to have a delicious meal ready for you at the end of a long day. Simply combine the seasoned chicken and tomato sauce in the slow cooker, set it to cook on low heat for several hours, and let the magic happen. The slow and gentle cooking process allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a rich and savory dish.
Serves: 6-8
ALLERGIES:
- Sf (Shellfish)
- Gf (Gluten)
- Df (Dairy)
- Ef (Egg)
- Nf (Nuts)
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 skinless chicken, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/8 tsp. pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1 zucchini, sliced into medium pieces
- ground black pepper
- parsley to garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Season chicken with 1 tsp. salt. Combine flour, pepper, remaining salt, and paprika.
- Coat chicken pieces with this mixture.
- Place zucchini first in a crockpot. Pour broth over zucchini. Arrange chicken on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until tender.
- Turn control to high, add mushrooms, cover, and cook on high for additional 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and ground black pepper.
SERVING AND GARNISHING:
- Slow cooker Italian chicken can be served in various ways. The tender chicken can be enjoyed on its own with a side of crusty bread or paired with your favorite pasta for a hearty and comforting meal. You can also serve it over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying plate.
- Garnishing options for slow cooker Italian chicken are versatile. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top to add a pop of freshness and color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil can also enhance the flavors and provide a touch of richness.
Slow cooker Italian chicken is a fantastic option for those seeking a flavorful and fuss-free meal. With its tender meat, aromatic herbs, and tangy tomato sauce, this dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine in a convenient and satisfying way. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, slow cooker Italian chicken is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and ease of preparation.
