Close your eyes and imagine a dish that bursts with the vibrant colors and bold flavors of Italy. Open your eyes, because today I’m sharing my beloved recipe for Chicken Cacciatore. Get ready to ignite your taste buds and experience a true Italian culinary adventure.

Chicken Cacciatore

Close your eyes and imagine a dish that bursts with the vibrant colors and bold flavors of Italy. Open your eyes, because today I'm sharing my beloved recipe for Chicken Cacciatore. Get ready to ignite your taste buds and experience a true Italian culinary adventure.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 people

Calories 264 kcal

Equipment

1 sauce pan

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 large onion, cut into thin strips
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ pound white mushrooms, thinly sliced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can whole tomatoes (with their juice reserved), chopped
½ teaspoon dried oregano
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (you can add more in you like it zesty)
¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a sauce pan over medium-high heat, and brown the chicken on both sides, (about 4 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the pan ad set it aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion and pepper; cover the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften (about 5 minutes). Add the mushrooms and continue to cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms begin to brown.
Add the garlic and the tomatoes (and their juice), oregano, and red pepper flakes and simmer the mixture covered for 10 minutes.
While the mixture simmers, cut the chicken into large chunks or strips.
Return the chicken breasts to the pan and simmer, covered, until the chicken is just done, about 5 minutes longer. Serve over brown rice or whole wheat pasta.

Video

Notes

The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts. Get creative and make it your own!

Keyword chicken

Alternative Method: Slow Cooker

If you’re looking for a hands-off approach to preparing Chicken Cacciatore, the slow cooker is your best companion. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while tenderizing the chicken to perfection. Here’s how to make Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore:

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, dried Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine. Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore over cooked pasta, polenta, or rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

Note: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer on the stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.

The slow cooker method allows the flavors to develop gradually, resulting in a rich and savory Chicken Cacciatore. The chicken becomes tender and effortlessly falls off the bone, while the vegetables soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a convenient and fuss-free way to enjoy this classic Italian dish.

Cooking Tips

When it comes to preparing Chicken Cacciatore, a few expert tips and tricks can make all the difference. In this section, I’ll share valuable insights to help you achieve the best results while avoiding common mistakes. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and create a truly unforgettable dish!

Marinate for maximum flavor:
To infuse your chicken with an extra layer of deliciousness, consider marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least an hour before cooking. This simple step will enhance the overall taste and tenderness of the chicken, taking your Chicken Cacciatore to new heights.
Don’t rush the browning process:
When browning the chicken, be patient and ensure each piece develops a golden crust. This step not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the depth of flavor in the final dish. Take your time and let the chicken achieve that mouthwatering caramelization.
Simmer low and slow:
Chicken Cacciatore is a dish that benefits from slow cooking. Once you’ve added the sauce and vegetables, lower the heat and let it simmer gently. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic sauce.
Use quality ingredients:
Since this recipe relies on the simplicity of its ingredients, it’s crucial to choose high-quality ones. Opt for ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and flavorful chicken. These ingredients will enhance the overall taste and contribute to an authentic Chicken Cacciatore experience.
Adjust seasonings to taste:
The beauty of homemade dishes lies in the ability to tailor them to your personal preferences. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process. Remember, cooking is an art, and your taste buds are the ultimate judges.

Serving & Storing Your Chicken Cacciatore

Now that your Chicken Cacciatore is ready to be enjoyed, let’s explore some delightful serving suggestions that will enhance its flavors and elevate your dining experience. From complementary sides to creative presentations, here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.

Recommend sides, garnishes, or beverages:
To complement the robust flavors of Chicken Cacciatore, consider serving it with a side of creamy polenta, which acts as the perfect canvas to soak up the savory sauce. Alternatively, pair it with al dente pasta or crusty bread to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of freshness. As for beverages, a glass of bold red wine or a crisp Italian beer would be an excellent match.

Suggest different ways to serve the dish:
While Chicken Cacciatore is traditionally served as a main course, you can also get creative with how you present it. For a casual gathering, serve it family-style in a large, rustic serving dish, allowing guests to help themselves. To add an elegant touch, plate individual portions over a bed of polenta or pasta, garnishing each plate with a sprig of fresh herbs. Experiment with different plating styles to make your dish visually appealing and appetizing.

How to store leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, considering how delicious this dish is), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain its luscious consistency.

FAQs

As a food blogger, I receive numerous questions about Chicken Cacciatore. In this section, I’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions to provide you with comprehensive answers and ensure your cooking journey is smooth and enjoyable.

Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken Cacciatore?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for bone-in chicken pieces, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist during the cooking process.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Certainly! In fact, Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better when the flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare the dish a day ahead, allowing the flavors to develop overnight. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Cacciatore for up to three months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried ones?
While fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. As a general rule, use one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.

Can I add additional vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Chicken Cacciatore is a versatile dish, and you can customize it to your liking. Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts to the sauce for added texture and flavor. Just ensure that the vegetables are cooked until tender before serving.

Get answers to your frequently asked questions about Chicken Cacciatore in our comprehensive FAQ section. We address common queries, including ingredient substitutions, make-ahead tips, freezing guidelines, and more. Discover how to store leftovers and make the most of this flavorful dish. Share this valuable information with fellow food enthusiasts and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

Experience the Magic of Chicken Cacciatore: A Must-Try Italian Dish