Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore
#Fastfactfriday, dinner edition! Now I’m not claiming to be a recipe developer or esteemed chef. However, I am a mom of a toddler who at around 5:30pm turns into a wild hangry animal who needs dinner served FAST. In an effort to not serve peanut butter banana sandwiches every night (although some nights it does come to that!) and provide her with a range of nutrients I try and accomplish a few things when it comes to dinner: 1. Can be prepared ahead of time 2. Has a healthy ratio of high quality protein, healthy fat and acellular carbs 3. Has at least 2 different vegetables served with it.
This crockpot chicken cacciatore is not only delicious and packed with nutrients but beyond easy and a crowd pleaser amongst toddlers, husbands + dogs.
Here’s what ya need and why it’s good for ya!
- 4 Boneless Chicken thighs: Not only do chicken thighs have more flavor, they also contain higher levels if micronutrients such as zinc, iron and vitamin C
- 1-2tbsp olive oil: antioxidant + anti inflammatory properties, monounsaturated fats
- ½ yellow onion: vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, antioxidants + fiber
- 1 bell pepper sliced (whatever color you have on hand): Vitamins A, C, E, folate + beta carotene
- ½ cup baby bella mushrooms, halved: B vitamins, choline, copper + fun fact–when put outside in the sun, mushrooms absorb Vitamin D making them the only plant source of this important vitamin!
- 1- 8 ounce can crushed tomatoes: lycopene, Vitamins A, C, K
- 1/2 8oz can artichokes: Vitamins C + A, iron, protein + fiber
- Handful of fresh spinach and/or kale: anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, Vitamins C + K
- Black olives + capers to taste (optional but highly recommended!): monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, antioxidants
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: vitamins C, b6 + manganese. Also shown to boost immune system function.
- 1.5 tsp oregano: antioxidants
- 2 tsps thyme: anti-inflammatory properties
- 2 tbsp parsley: Vitamins A, C + K
- Salt, pepper + red pepper flakes to taste
Place the chicken thighs in your crockpot and coat with olive oil then place all remaining ingredients on top and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Enjoy over pasta, cauliflower rice or just as is!
Let me know if you make + enjoy this dish! Happy Friday!!
xoxo
Amanda