Olivia Carter
Hunter’s Chicken, also known as Chicken Chasseur, is a delicious and hearty dish that originated in France. It is traditionally made by simmering chicken in a rich sauce made from tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, and herbs. The dish is typically cooked slowly on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.
But can you cook this classic dish in a slow cooker? The answer is a resounding yes! Using a slow cooker to make Hunter’s Chicken allows you to achieve the same delicious flavors and tender chicken, but with the added convenience of hands-off cooking.
The slow cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to prepare a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to roasts and desserts. Its gentle heat and long cooking time create tender and flavorful meals, making it an ideal tool for cooking Hunter’s Chicken.
To make Hunter’s Chicken in a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it to low or high heat depending on your desired cooking time, and let it simmer away. The result will be a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please your family or guests.
Preparation and Cooking of Hunters Chicken in a Slow Cooker
Hunters Chicken, also known as Chicken Chasseur, is a classic and hearty dish that can be packed with flavor when cooked in a slow cooker. This cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, while also allowing the flavors to meld together. Follow these simple steps to prepare and cook Hunters Chicken in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 200g of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 200g of mushrooms, sliced
- 400g of canned chopped tomatoes
- 200ml of chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons of tomato puree
- 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they have softened.
- Transfer the cooked bacon, onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, canned chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, tomato puree, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Hunters Chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- If desired, you can thicken the sauce by removing the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and mixing in some cornstarch slurry. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the Hunters Chicken over rice or mashed potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley.
This slow cooker method allows for a hassle-free and delicious Hunters Chicken that is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. The tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and combination of bacon, mushrooms, and thyme create a dish that is sure to impress.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When making Hunters Chicken in a slow cooker, it is important to choose the right ingredients to ensure that the dish turns out rich in flavor and tender in texture.
Chicken
The key ingredient in Hunters Chicken is, of course, the chicken. Choosing the right cut of chicken is essential for achieving the best results. You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful dish. The skin helps to keep the chicken moist during the slow cooking process and adds extra flavor.
If you prefer white meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. However, keep in mind that breast meat tends to dry out more easily, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming tough.
Tomato Sauce
The tomato sauce is another key component of Hunters Chicken. You can use store-bought tomato sauce, but making your own homemade sauce can elevate the dish to the next level. Homemade tomato sauce allows you to control the flavors and add additional herbs and spices to suit your taste.
A classic combination for the sauce includes tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs like thyme and oregano, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar or honey. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Bacon
Bacon is a signature ingredient in Hunters Chicken and adds a smoky and savory element to the dish. You can use streaky bacon or pancetta, whichever you prefer. It is important to cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure that it retains its texture throughout the cooking process.
Make sure to trim any excess fat from the bacon, as too much fat can result in a greasy finished dish. You can also use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a healthier or meat-free version of Hunters Chicken.
By selecting the right ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying Hunters Chicken in your slow cooker. Experiment with flavors and make adjustments based on your personal taste preferences to create a dish that is truly your own.
Preparing the Chicken for Slow Cooking
Before you begin cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken for the slow cooker. This will help ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful once it’s finished cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Trim the Chicken:
Start by trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken pieces. This will reduce the amount of grease in the dish and result in a healthier, less greasy final product. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any unwanted parts.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. This will help add flavor to the meat as it cooks. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own mixture based on your personal taste preferences.
3. Brown the Chicken (optional):
For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This step is optional but can add a delicious depth of flavor to the final dish.
4. Add Liquid:
Before placing the chicken in the slow cooker, add a liquid of your choice to help keep the meat moist during the cooking process. This can be chicken broth, water, or even a combination of liquids like lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce. The liquid will also help create a flavorful sauce or gravy.
Note: Make sure not to add too much liquid as it may dilute the flavors of the dish. A general rule of thumb is to add enough liquid to cover the bottom of the slow cooker but not submerge the chicken.
Once you’ve prepared the chicken for slow cooking, you’re ready to start the cooking process. Simply place the chicken and any additional ingredients in the slow cooker, set it to the desired temperature and cooking time, and let it work its magic. Slow cooking is a convenient and delicious way to prepare hunters chicken, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for a hearty meal.
Slow Cooking Hunter’s Chicken
If you enjoy the rich and flavorful combination of chicken, bacon, and barbecue sauce, you’ll love slow cooking Hunter’s Chicken. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the delicious melt-in-your-mouth chicken at the end of the day.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wrap each chicken breast with 2 bacon slices, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
- In a skillet, cook the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts over medium-high heat until the bacon is crispy. This step helps render some of the fat from the bacon and adds extra flavor to the dish.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until they are softened and lightly golden. Add them to the slow cooker.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the chicken breasts during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the toothpicks and serve the Hunter’s Chicken hot.
This slow cooking Hunter’s Chicken will fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas, and the end result will be a dish that’s bursting with flavors. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tip: You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the barbecue sauce or using a spicier sauce for an extra kick. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Recommendations
Once your hunters chicken is done cooking in the slow cooker, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed. Here are some serving recommendations to make your meal even more delicious:
1. Plating
To plate your hunters chicken, you can start by placing a portion of the chicken on a serving platter. You can then spoon the delicious barbecue sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly. This will not only add flavor but also give it an appetizing appearance. You can serve the hunters chicken as the main course alongside some sides like mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
2. Garnish
To add a finishing touch to your hunters chicken, you can garnish it with some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the chicken once it is plated to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This will elevate the overall presentation of the dish and impress your guests.
For storage recommendations, make sure to let the hunters chicken cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. You can store the leftovers in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Hunters chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
If you are planning to freeze the hunters chicken, it is a good idea to separate it into individual portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw and reheat only the amount you need, without having to defrost the entire batch. When reheating hunters chicken, make sure to do so thoroughly to ensure it is heated all the way through.
By following these serving and storage recommendations, you can enjoy delicious hunters chicken straight from the slow cooker and save some for later as well!
FAQ
Can you cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker.
Is it easy to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, it is easy to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker.
What are the ingredients needed to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker?
The ingredients needed to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker are chicken breasts, bacon, barbecue sauce, cheese, and herbs.
How long does it take to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker?
It usually takes about 4-6 hours to cook hunters chicken in a slow cooker.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker when cooking hunters chicken?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the slow cooker when cooking hunters chicken for added flavor.
