Amid the bustling chaos of the week, I stumbled upon a little culinary jewel—Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello. Imagine sinking into the comforting aroma of tender chicken thighs mingling with sweet Italian sausage and zesty peppadew peppers, all slow-cooked to perfection. This easy dinner has become my go-to for those busy nights when I crave that hearty home-cooked feel without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only does it satisfy hunger, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that makes weeknight meals feel special. As the rich flavors blend together, you’ll find it pairs beautifully with simple sides, elevating any dinner table. Are you ready to bring this slice of warmth into your home? Let’s dive into the delightful world of slow cooking!

Why Is This Chicken Scarpariello a Must-Try?

Ease of Preparation: This Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello requires minimal effort; just throw in the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work!

Incredible Flavor: The blend of sweet Italian sausage and zesty peppadew peppers creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sausage for a spicy kick, making this dish adaptable to everyone’s tastes.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this hearty meal fits right in, offering something special for all.

Time-Saving Delight: Ready in just over five hours, this dish is the perfect solution for those ‘what’s for dinner?’ moments, giving you time to unwind or tackle your to-do list.

For more slow cooker goodness, don’t miss my recipe for Crockpot Kung Pao—a quick and flavorful option!

Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients

For the Main Dish

Olive Oil – Provides fat for sautéing and flavor enhancement. Can use vegetable oil for a neutral flavor.
Sweet Italian Sausage – Adds richness and depth of flavor. Use bulk sausage rather than links to simplify preparation.
Yellow Onion – Contributes sweetness and aromatic elements to the dish. Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor profile with its robust aroma. Fresh minced garlic preferred for best taste.
Chicken Thighs – Ideal for slow cooking, stay tender and juicy. Avoid using chicken breasts as they may result in toughness if overcooked.
Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture to the dish. Any small waxy potato variety works.
Peppadew Peppers – Provides sweetness and a mild kick. Mild sweet peppers can replace peppadew if unavailable.
White Cooking Wine – Adds acidity and depth, enhancing the overall flavor. Can substitute with additional chicken broth if preferred.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Increases liquid for cooking while providing salty flavor. Use low-sodium to control overall saltiness.
White Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy brightness to the dish. Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative.
Fresh Rosemary – Infuses the dish with earthy, aromatic notes. Fresh herbs always provide the best flavor, but dried can be used in smaller quantities.

Optional Additions

Bell Peppers – Offer additional flavor and vibrant color. Feel free to mix colors for a more visually appealing dish.
Carrots – Increase nutrition and sweetness in the dish. Chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes for even cooking.
Spicy Sausage – For those who enjoy a kick. Swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy sausage to elevate heat.

This Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello recipe promises a delightful combination of flavors, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks as it browns, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned nicely, transfer the sausage to your slow cooker, letting the oil and flavor linger in the skillet.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant, giving you an aromatic foundation for your Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello. Scrape any browned bits from the pan and pour the onion-garlic mixture into the slow cooker with the sausage.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker, ensuring they’re well-seasoned with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t worry about overcrowding; the slow cooker will work its magic. The chicken will soak in the flavors of the sausage and onion-garlic mix as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Layer in the halved baby Yukon Gold potatoes and chopped peppadew peppers over the chicken. These hearty additions provide texture and taste, making this dish a true comfort meal. Gently stir to combine without disturbing the chicken too much.

Step 5: Combine Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the white cooking wine, low-sodium chicken broth, and white wine vinegar over the mix in the slow cooker. This combination will create a rich, flavorful sauce as everything slowly simmers together. Toss in the fresh rosemary sprigs for an aromatic finish.

Step 6: Set to Cook
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Keep an eye on it—the chicken should be tender and cooked through, and the potatoes should be fork-tender by the end of the cooking time.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce for your Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating those delicious flavors into a rich, savory sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables.

Step 8: Serve and Savor
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully scoop out the Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello, ensuring each serving includes some sausage, chicken, and vegetables. Consider serving with crusty bread or over rice to soak up that delectable sauce, making your family dinner feel extra special.

Storage Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures the flavors stay fresh, allowing you to enjoy scrumptious meals throughout the week.

Freezer: Freeze Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello for up to 2 months in a sturdy freezer container or resealable bag. For best quality, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

Reheating: To maintain the dish’s moisture, add a splash of chicken broth while reheating on low heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello?

Bring warmth and excitement to your dinner table with deliciously paired sides that complement the hearty flavors of this comforting dish.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, crusty bread adds a wonderful crunchy texture to your meal.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes enhance the rustic charm of the chicken dish, providing a smooth and buttery base.
Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors, making every bite feel harmonious.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed garlic spinach offers a vibrant pop of color and nutritious greens, brightening up your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization of roasted Brussels sprouts adds a delightful crunch, pairing beautifully with the tender chicken.
Citrus-infused Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this quinoa accented with citrus zest brings a burst of brightness while remaining filling.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio elegantly complements the dish, enhancing the dining experience.
Chocolate Pudding Parfaits: Finish on a sweet note with creamy chocolate pudding layered with whipped cream for a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello Variations

Customize your Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello to suit your taste buds and dietary needs, creating a unique dish every time!

Spicy Sausage: Swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy sausage to give your dish an exciting heat.
Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or carrots for extra vibrancy and nutrition—these colorful veggies brighten up your meal!
Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and broths are gluten-free to enjoy this dish without worry.
Herb Alternatives: Experiment with thyme or oregano instead of rosemary for a different herbal touch that can change the flavor profile.
Vegan Twist: Replace chicken and sausage with hearty mushrooms and chickpeas for a filling plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Potato Variations: If you’re looking for something new, try using sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for a sweeter undertone.
Zesty Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some fiery flavor to this comforting dish.
Wine Alternatives: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with additional chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity and brightness.

Feel free to explore these variations and make this dish your own! And if you’re craving other hearty meals, check out my recipe for Loaded Chicken Club or Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde for more delicious inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

This Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello is a meal prep dream come true! You can chop the onions, garlic, and peppers up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can brown the sausage and prepare the chicken thighs the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the slow cooker insert, ensuring everything stays fresh until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy this hearty dish, throw everything into the slow cooker, add the liquids, and let it work its magic. With these prep ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with incredible flavor, perfect for busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello

Choose Chicken Wisely: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts to keep the meat juicy and tender during slow cooking. Breasts can dry out if overcooked.
Prep Ahead: Save time on busy days by prepping your ingredients the night before. Store them in the refrigerator in the slow cooker insert for an easy, convenient evening meal.
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs or spices beyond rosemary. Basil or oregano can elevate your Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello to new flavor heights!
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Store Wisely: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Ensure they’re in an airtight container, or freeze portions for up to 2 months for a quick meal later!

Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are ideal for this Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello as they remain juicy and tender during slow cooking. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out if overcooked, thighs absorb the flavors beautifully without losing moisture.

How should I store leftovers from this dish?
I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, transfer them to a sturdy freezer container or resealable bag, and keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze Crock Pot Chicken Scarpariello?
Yes, you can! Freeze the cooled dish in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in a pot on low heat and add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture as it warms up.

What if my sauce is too thin?
Not a problem! If you find the sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, mix a cornstarch slurry by combining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken your sauce without much effort! Just keep the lid off while it thickens to allow some evaporation.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very important! If you’re concerned about dietary needs, be mindful of what goes into your dish. For gluten-free options, make sure your chicken broth and any other sauces used are certified gluten-free. Additionally, if you’re catering to allergies, substitute any ingredients as needed—like using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
You can easily ensure your chicken is cooked through by checking its internal temperature. The chicken thighs should reach at least 165°F (75°C). You’ll also notice that the meat is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork, indicating it has cooked properly in the slow cooker. Enjoy your meal!