Name: Chicken Cacciatore Recipe: Hearty and Savory
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in (skin-on chicken thighs); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional); 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 bay leaf; Optional: Fresh parsley (basil); Suggested Pairings: Pasta (red wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian main dish, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy Italian-inspired meals. This hearty dish, featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs, delivers a savory, comforting flavor with a rustic texture. Presented in a white ceramic dish, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil, this Chicken Cacciatore recipe offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, homemade version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings Italian charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Cacciatore:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 bay leaf

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, basil
Suggested Accompaniments: Pasta, polenta, crusty bread
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic dish
Suggested Equipment: Large skillet or Dutch oven, tongs, cutting board, knife, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Season and Sear Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms; cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in white wine (if using) and scrape up browned bits from the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Cook Chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Taste and Adjust: Remove bay leaf. Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch of salt, pepper, or oregano for balanced flavor. If too thick, add 1–2 tbsp broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
Serve: Transfer Chicken Cacciatore to a white ceramic dish. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve with pasta, polenta, crusty bread, red wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Chicken Cacciatore

Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a crispy, golden skin.
Taste the sauce before serving to balance savory, tangy, and herbaceous flavors; adjust cautiously.
Use a large skillet or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and enough space for the sauce.
Deglaze with wine for depth, or substitute with extra broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Present in a white ceramic dish to highlight the rich sauce and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate and reheat gently to maintain flavor.
For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or basil for a vibrant, fresh look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Chicken Cacciatore: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth is gluten-free certified. Serve with gluten-free pasta or polenta.
Low-Sodium Chicken Cacciatore: Reduce salt to 1/2 tsp and use low-sodium broth and tomatoes.
Spicy Chicken Cacciatore: Increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp or add 1 diced jalapeño with vegetables.
Vegetarian Cacciatore: Replace chicken with 2 cups diced eggplant or portobello mushrooms; reduce cooking time to 20 minutes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore: Sear chicken and vegetables, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients; cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Creamy Chicken Cacciatore: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving for a creamy twist.
Herb-Forward Chicken Cacciatore: Add 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme with the dried herbs.
Mediterranean Chicken Cacciatore: Add 1/4 cup sliced olives and 2 tbsp capers with the tomatoes.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve texture.
Serve warm for the best flavor and tender chicken.
Use as a main dish with starchy sides like pasta or polenta for a complete meal.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water to complement the savory, tomatoey flavors.
Present in a white ceramic dish with garnishes for an appetizing, rustic charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 thigh with sauce each):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 25% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 40% Daily Value
Calcium: 8% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~400mg). High in protein and vitamin C; enjoy vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cacciatore recipe delivers a hearty, savory dish perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into an Italian classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tender chicken and rich sauce delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing warmth.