Chicken Cacciatore... the Slow Cooker Way

Recipe from Judy Dodd. Serves 4. Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking Time: Varies depending on use of crock pot or range-top/oven

Ingredients

Olive Oil Spray 6-8 pieces chicken, legs, thighs, breast halves, skin removed 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms 1/2 cup sliced onions 3/4 cup green or red bell pepper, cut into chunks 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 cups tomato sauce 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves, crushed or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped 1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped 2 tablespoons flour mixed with 1/4 cup water Grated Parmesan Cheese Cooked whole grain pasta

Directions

Spray a skillet with cooking oil spray. Lightly sauté the chicken, mushrooms, onions and pepper. Add garlic and continue to cook 1 minute.

Transfer ingredients to a 3 1/2 - 4 quart slow cooker. Add tomatoes and seasonings. Cover and cook on low setting for 6-8 hours.

Just before serving, remove the chicken and vegetables. Mix 2 tablespoons flour with 1/4 cup water. Stir into the sauce in the slow cooker. Increase to high and cook for 8 minutes or until the sauce is thickened.

Combine sauce with the chicken and vegetables and serve over hot pasta. Sprinkle with cheese.

NOTE: this can be simmered on top of the range in a covered deep skillet or in the oven (350 degrees). Cooking time will be about one hour.