Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish known for its rich, savory flavors. This hearty meal features tender chicken simmered in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables and herbs, making it a perfect choice for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken, skin side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, sliced bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. Serve: Garnish the Chicken Cacciatore with fresh parsley or basil. Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add extra vegetables such as carrots or olives for more flavor.
• Wine Substitute: Use additional chicken broth instead of white wine if preferred.
• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, but boneless chicken will cook faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I use instead of white wine? Use chicken broth or a splash of red wine vinegar as a substitute.
3. Can I make Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time? Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
4. How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be tender.
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and chop them, and cook them down to create a sauce-like consistency.
6. What sides go well with Chicken Cacciatore? Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
7. Can I use skinless chicken? Yes, but the dish will be less rich without the skin. You might want to add a bit more oil to the cooking process.
8. How can I make this dish spicier? Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
9. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, brown the chicken first, then cook all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours.
10. How can I thicken the sauce? Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Conclusion

Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless Italian dish that brings together tender chicken and a robust tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs. This recipe is ideal for a comforting family dinner and pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty goodness of this classic meal!

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