Tia's Crock Pot Spicy Chicken Cacciatore

I made this up out of several different recipes. Since we love things fairly spicy it took humdrum to very nice spice!!! Note that I do not brown chicken first...just toss it in the crock pot. Also...I am not very good about measuring...although since zaar membership I am trying harder....so always taste to decide if you need more of a spice. I am also not sure of the crock pot cooking time as I am at home checking it and stirring occasionally...will try and get that down better next time I make it. Enjoy!

• Ready In: 6 hrs 20 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 2 1⁄2-3  lbs skinless chicken breasts, with ribs, washed and dried
• 2  pinches red pepper flakes
•  black pepper, to taste
• 3  teaspoons  of minced garlic (or more if desired)
• 1  green bell pepper, seeded and cubed
• 1  red bell pepper, seeded and cubed
• 8  ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2  large onions, thinly sliced
• 1  teaspoon  italian seasoning
• 2 (26 ounce) jars  pasta sauce (I use Classico spicy red pepper and their spicy basil combined)
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomatoes seasoned with basil garlic & oregano
• 1  bay leaf
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  Old Bay Seasoning
• 6 -7  fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
• 1  teaspoon  Pickapeppa Sauce (optional)
• 1  small zucchini, diced (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup red wine (optional)
• 4  tablespoons  chilled butter
• 1⁄4 cup half-and-half or 1⁄4 cup  whipping cream
• 1⁄2 cup  fresh grated parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Place chicken in crock pot bone side up.
2. Add all seasonings and vegetables on top of chicken, including the optionals if using stop at the butter.
3. Then add the 2 jars of pasta sauce on top. I cook on high for 3-4 hours depending on how thick the chicken breasts are, stirring occasionally.
4. When the internal temperature reaches 180°F using a meat thermometer, I remove the chicken and debone, placing meat back into the sauce.
5. I then add the butter, whipping cream and continue to cook for another hour on warm.
6. About 10 minutes before serving, I add the parmesan cheese.
7. Serve over pasta or I use extra wide egg noodles with warm crusty bread!