Classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore

Table of Contents

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that means “hunter-style chicken.” This rustic recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with onions bell peppers mushrooms and olives. Flavored with garlic herbs and a splash of wine this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty family meal. Serve it over pasta polenta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (or a mix)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1 small onion diced

1 red bell pepper sliced

1 green bell pepper sliced

3 cloves garlic minced

8 ounces mushrooms sliced (optional)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1/2 cup dry red or white wine

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh

1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh

1/4 cup black or green olives sliced (optional)

2 tablespoons capers (optional for extra flavor)

1 bay leaf

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season with salt black pepper and oregano.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan add the onion bell peppers and mushrooms. Sauté until softened about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and red pepper flakes if using and cook for another 30 seconds.

Pour in the wine scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes chicken broth basil oregano thyme olives capers if using and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan submerging it in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low cover and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken for another 5-10 minutes if needed. Discard the bay leaf.

Serving Tips

Serve over pasta polenta rice or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Garnish with fresh basil parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

For a lighter version remove the skin from the chicken before cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Per Serving Approximate

Calories: 350-450

Protein: 25-30g

Carbohydrates: 15-20g

Fiber: 4-6g

Fat: 18-22g

Sodium: Varies based on seasoning and olives

Conclusion

Classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore is a rich and flavorful dish that brings rustic Italian comfort to your table. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a savory tomato sauce with onions bell peppers mushrooms and herbs creates a hearty and satisfying meal. This versatile recipe pairs well with pasta polenta rice or crusty bread making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.