Chicken Cacciatore is one of the most beloved Italian comfort dishes, cherished for its deep, rich flavors and rustic charm. This dish, which translates to “hunter-style chicken,” originated in Italy as a simple yet hearty meal prepared by hunters using fresh, local ingredients. Traditionally, it includes braised chicken, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken.
The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore lies in its versatility. While it is commonly made with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks, you can also use a whole chicken cut into parts or even boneless chicken for a leaner version. The sauce, rich with tomatoes and infused with wine and herbs, develops an incredible depth of flavor as it simmers. It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
This dish is a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread, Chicken Cacciatore is sure to impress your family and guests. The cooking process is simple and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills, making it an accessible recipe for home cooks of all levels.
Another reason this dish is so popular is that it is highly customizable. You can add mushrooms, olives, or capers for an extra layer of flavor. Some regions in Italy use white wine instead of red, while others prefer to keep it strictly tomato-based. The beauty of cooking is making a dish your own, and Chicken Cacciatore is a perfect canvas for creativity.
Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken provides high-quality protein, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Bell peppers add vitamin C, and garlic has been known for its immune-boosting properties. It’s a wholesome, well-balanced meal that delivers both flavor and nourishment.
For those who love meal prepping, Chicken Cacciatore is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking. Plus, the longer it sits, the more the flavors develop, ensuring an even tastier meal the next day.
This recipe also pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or a fresh green salad all complement the richness of the dish. If you want to stick with Italian tradition, serving it with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine enhances the experience.
One of the best things about this dish is its ability to bring people together. In Italian culture, meals are more than just food; they are an experience meant to be shared. Chicken Cacciatore is a dish that embodies that sentiment, offering warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every bite.
Now, let’s dive into the details of how to make this incredible Chicken Cacciatore at home. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked Italian masterpiece in no time.
Servings:
- Serves: 4
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Instructions:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and let it simmer over low heat for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and olives (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken as it adds depth to the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Substitute red wine with chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Summary:
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish featuring braised chicken in a savory tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, garlic, and herbs. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Serve it over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a comforting, satisfying meal.
