Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian comfort dish, brimming with rustic flavors and rich, hearty ingredients. Known as “hunter’s chicken” in Italian, this recipe is traditionally made with braised chicken, a medley of vibrant vegetables, tomatoes, wine, and fragrant herbs. The result is a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Whether served with crusty bread, creamy polenta, or a bed of pasta, Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless meal that brings everyone to the table. This slow-simmered dish is easy to prepare and full of Mediterranean flair. Ready to explore this Italian classic? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Robust Flavors: The combination of simmered tomatoes, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs creates a complex and deeply satisfying dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, polenta, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• One-Pot Wonder: This dish is made in a single pot, simplifying cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Chicken Cacciatore stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or weekly meal planning.
• Authentic Italian Comfort Food: A traditional recipe that’s hearty, comforting, and reminiscent of homemade Italian cooking.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit your preferences.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken piece with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 360
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot)
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup sliced black or green olives (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. This step helps the chicken develop a golden, flavorful crust during searing.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour the red wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying in flavor.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and bay leaf to the pan. Stir to combine, then return the seared chicken to the pot, nestling it into the sauce.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer gently for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Step 7: Final Touches

Stir in the fresh parsley and olives (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with more fresh parsley. Pair it with your favorite side dish, such as pasta, polenta, or crusty bread.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe, as they stay juicy and tender during slow cooking. Chicken breasts or drumsticks can also be used, though thighs provide the richest flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add sweetness and color to the dish. Yellow or orange peppers are great alternatives if preferred.
• Red Wine: Adds depth and richness to the sauce. Choose a dry red wine you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will shine through in the dish.
• Crushed Tomatoes: The base of the sauce, providing a thick and hearty texture. San Marzano tomatoes are a high-quality option.
• Herbs: Dried oregano and basil infuse the sauce with classic Italian flavors, while fresh parsley brightens the final dish.

Technique Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken ensures a golden, crispy sear.
• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: The wine deglazing step lifts flavorful bits from the pan, enhancing the sauce’s taste.
• Cook Low and Slow: Simmering the chicken gently ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Pasta: Ladle the chicken and sauce over fettuccine, spaghetti, or pappardelle for a classic pairing.
• With Polenta: Serve with creamy polenta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the sauce and shredded chicken as a filling for baked bell peppers.
• As a Stew: Serve the chicken and sauce in bowls with a side of crusty bread to dip.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this recipe means every ingredient matters. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality tomatoes and wine.
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes beautifully, so make a larger batch to enjoy later.
• Remove the Bay Leaf: Remember to take out the bay leaf before serving, as it’s not edible.
• Balance the Acidity: If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.

Recipe Variations

• White Wine Cacciatore: Swap the red wine for a dry white wine for a lighter, brighter sauce.
• Mushroom Cacciatore: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan when sautéing the vegetables for an earthy flavor.
• Spicy Cacciatore: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Cacciatore: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a meatless option.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use skinless chicken thighs or breasts to reduce fat content.
• Skip the wine and use additional chicken broth for a lower-calorie option.
• Serve with whole-grain pasta or quinoa instead of traditional pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon to cut down on fat.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve with spaghetti and a simple green salad for a satisfying meal.
• Romantic Date Night: Pair with creamy polenta, a bottle of red wine, and a chocolate dessert for an intimate Italian-inspired dinner.
• Potluck Party: Serve the chicken in a slow cooker on the warm setting, accompanied by rolls or pasta for easy serving.
• Holiday Gathering: Offer Chicken Cacciatore as a main dish alongside roasted vegetables and garlic bread for a crowd-pleasing option.

Special Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet: Essential for braising and simmering the chicken evenly.
• Tongs: For easily flipping the chicken during searing.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for deglazing the pan and stirring the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken?
A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well, though the flavor is richer with bone-in cuts. Adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster.

Q: Can I omit the wine?
A: Absolutely. Replace the wine with extra chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.

Q: What can I use instead of bell peppers?
A: Zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant are great alternatives that complement the dish’s flavors.

Q: How do I thicken the sauce further?
A: Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as the wine and chicken broth are gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Q: What side dishes pair well with Chicken Cacciatore?
A: Pasta, polenta, rice, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Definitely. The flavors deepen when made ahead, so it’s great for meal prep or entertaining.

Conclusion

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken with a savory tomato-based sauce, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prepping, this hearty recipe offers authentic comfort with minimal effort. Whether served with pasta, polenta, or bread, Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless favorite that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Try it today and bring a taste of rustic Italy to your kitchen!

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