Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, bell peppers, and herbs. That’s Chicken Cacciatore, a classic Italian dish that translates to “hunter’s chicken.” This hearty and comforting stew is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Our recipe makes it easy to bring the taste of Italy to your table, even if you’re a beginner cook. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure to create this delightful Chicken Cacciatore!
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a quick look at the recipe overview:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving
Estimated nutritional information per serving of Chicken Cacciatore (approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
(Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Cacciatore
Here’s what you’ll need to create your very own Chicken Cacciatore:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on Chicken Pieces (thighs, drumsticks, and breasts) | 2.5 – 3 pounds | You can use boneless, skinless chicken, but bone-in adds more flavor. |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor. |
| Yellow Onion | 1 large, chopped | White onion can be substituted. |
| Bell Peppers (red, green, or yellow) | 2, sliced | A mix of colors adds visual appeal. |
| Mushrooms (cremini or button) | 8 ounces, sliced | Shiitake mushrooms add an earthy flavor. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Use a garlic press for easy mincing. |
| Dry Red Wine | 1 cup | Chianti, Merlot, or Pinot Noir work well. Chicken broth can be substituted for an alcohol-free version. |
| Canned Crushed Tomatoes | 28 ounces | Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon | Fresh oregano (1 tablespoon, chopped) can be substituted. |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon | Fresh basil (1 tablespoon, chopped) can be substituted. |
| Bay Leaf | 1 | Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. |
| Salt | To taste | Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended. |
| Black Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground black pepper is preferred. |
| Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish) | 2 tablespoons, chopped | Adds a fresh touch. |
Cooking Instructions
Ready to transform these ingredients into a mouthwatering Chicken Cacciatore? Follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Searing the chicken creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices, contributing to a richer flavor in the final Chicken Cacciatore.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Add Garlic and Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the dry red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This process, called deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Bay Leaf: Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken Cacciatore: Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove Bay Leaf and Adjust Seasoning: Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions for your Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Pasta: Serve over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. The rich sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is a classic accompaniment to Chicken Cacciatore.
- Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Rice: Steamed rice is a simple and satisfying side dish.
- Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, adds a healthy element to the meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew.
A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors of the Chicken Cacciatore beautifully.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Chicken Cacciatore
- Bone-in vs. Boneless Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken is convenient, bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces add more flavor to the stew.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute chicken broth.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier Chicken Cacciatore, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Add Olives: Kalamata olives or other briny olives add a Mediterranean touch to the dish.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it Vegetarian: Transform this dish into a flavorful vegetarian cacciatore by substituting the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and more mushrooms. Follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the simmering time as needed until the vegetables are tender.
Chicken Cacciatore is a fantastic dish to make ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it’s even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs filling your kitchen, the satisfaction of creating a comforting and flavorful dish, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, follow our easy-to-understand recipe, and create your own memorable Chicken Cacciatore today. We promise you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the taste of Italy in every bite!
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Chicken Cacciatore recipe is designed for everyone. Its forgiving nature and adaptable ingredients make it a staple in any kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of mushrooms or peppers to find your perfect combination. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and savor the results. Buon appetito!
Remember, the key to a great Chicken Cacciatore is patience. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer and more complex the flavor will become. This is a dish that rewards slow cooking and careful attention. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with love and care, can create something truly extraordinary.
So, what are you waiting for? Bring the warmth and flavors of Italy to your table with this easy and delicious Chicken Cacciatore recipe. It’s a dish that will impress your family and friends, and become a cherished favorite for years to come. Get cooking and create a memorable meal that everyone will love. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this flavorful and comforting classic.
