Slow cooking chicken in tomato sauce is a fantastic way to create a deeply flavorful and incredibly tender dish with minimal effort. This method allows the chicken to simmer gently, breaking down the connective tissues and resulting in juicy, fall-apart meat. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is adaptable to your taste preferences and pantry staples. Let's dive into the delicious details!
Why Slow Cook Chicken in Tomato Sauce?
The magic of slow cooking lies in its gentle heat. This allows the chicken to cook evenly, preventing it from drying out. The long, slow simmering process also melds the flavors of the chicken and the tomato sauce beautifully, creating a rich and complex sauce that's perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or polenta. Plus, the hands-off nature of slow cooking means you can focus on other tasks while dinner simmers to perfection.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, but thighs stay more moist)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipment:
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics (Optional): If desired, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor but is entirely optional.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker. If you sautéed the onions and garlic, add them to the slow cooker as well.
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Add Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. If necessary, add a little water to ensure enough liquid covers the chicken.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred and Serve: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Serve over your favorite pasta, rice, polenta, or even mashed potatoes.
Troubleshooting and Tips
How long does it take to slow cook chicken in tomato sauce?
Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and your slow cooker. As a general guideline, 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high is ideal. Always check that the chicken is cooked through by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, keep a close eye on them and reduce the cooking time slightly. Consider adding a little extra liquid to the slow cooker if needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. The chicken will taste even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking! Some delicious additions include:
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, bell peppers, mushrooms
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary
- Spices: Paprika, cumin, chili powder
- Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving
Conclusion
Slow-cooked chicken in tomato sauce is a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat. Enjoy the tender, flavorful results!
