Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that embodies the essence of rustic cooking. This hearty, comforting meal features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce, infused with aromatic herbs, bell peppers, and olives. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, Chicken Cacciatore is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a beloved favorite for many home cooks.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this Chicken Cacciatore recipe for its depth of flavor and simplicity. The combination of sautéed vegetables and slow-cooked chicken creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal hands-on time and allows for a beautiful melding of flavors as it simmers away. Perfect for those following a Mediterranean diet, this recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that are both delicious and filling.
Tips and Tricks
1. Brown the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, make sure to brown the chicken pieces well before simmering. This caramelization process enhances the overall taste.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and vegetables. Their vibrant flavors will elevate your dish.
3. Let it Simmer: Allow the Chicken Cacciatore to simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
4. Serve with Pasta or Bread: To soak up the delicious sauce, serve your Chicken Cacciatore over pasta or with crusty bread.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this Chicken Cacciatore recipe in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs overnight for more flavor. Cooked Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead option for meal preppers.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Cacciatore: Substitute half of the chicken with mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Cacciatore: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Slow Cooker Method: Brown the chicken, then transfer it to a slow cooker with the other ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate artichokes and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
How to Serve
To serve Chicken Cacciatore, place a generous portion on a plate and ladle the sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair the dish with a side of creamy polenta or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Chicken Cacciatore, consider pairing it with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. If you prefer cocktails, a classic Negroni would be a delightful match. For side dishes, roasted vegetables or garlic bread work beautifully. For dessert, a light panna cotta or tiramisu would round off the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: Essential for browning the chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: For chopping the vegetables.
- Cutting board: A must-have for food prep.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; just ensure your accompaniments are also free of dairy.
- Nut-Free: This dish is nut-free as it stands, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a vibrant flavor. In the fall, incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or squash for added texture. In winter, you can add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the mix.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for red wine? You can use chicken broth or a splash of vinegar mixed with water if you prefer not to cook with wine.
3. How do I know when my chicken is done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. It should be tender and easily fall off the bone.
How To Make chicken cacciatore recipe
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that embodies the essence of rustic cooking.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and brown them in the oil for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the oregano, basil, olives, and more salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet, submerging it in the sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 385Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 166mgSodium 428mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cacciatore is an extraordinary dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. With its vibrant flavors and heartiness, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish promises to impress. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, share the joy of cooking!