Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with vibrant flavors from Italy, this Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce brimming with mushrooms, bell peppers, and herbs create a dish full of rustic charm and soul-warming goodness. The combination of robust sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant rosemary, and a hint of capers adds layers of depth that will keep you coming back for seconds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a culinary celebration you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is key to nailing this Chicken Cacciatore Recipe. Each component plays an essential role—whether it’s building the sauce’s complexity, contributing to the texture, or giving that gorgeous, golden color to the chicken skin. Here’s a straightforward list that brings all those delightful flavors together with ease.

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Ensures juicy, flavorful meat with crisp skin after searing.
• 1 ½ tsp salt, divided: Enhances the natural flavors in both the chicken and sauce.
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and earthiness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Builds the savory base of the sauce with sweetness when softened.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Introduces vibrant color and a mild, sweet crunch.
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthy richness and texture to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a touch of warmth.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a thicker, richer sauce.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The hearty, juicy base of the sauce that pulls everything together.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides classic Mediterranean flair.
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary: Infuses woodsy, fragrant notes throughout the sauce.
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Adds a sweet, tangy punch and concentrated tomato flavor.
• 2 tbsp capers, drained: Offers briny brightness to balance the richness.
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Lifts the dish with fresh herbal brightness.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a final touch of color and freshness.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting those chicken thighs dry—this little step is key for that beautiful golden crust. Season them well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then place the chicken skin-side down. Let the magic happen as the chicken browns for about 8 to 10 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. Those crispy edges are total flavor boosters.

Step 2: Build Your Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet, keeping all those delicious fond bits, add the chopped onions, red bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sprinkle the remaining salt over them to help draw out sweetness and moisture. Sauté for about 7 minutes until everything softens and starts to meld together beautifully. Then stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and fresh rosemary sprig. Let the garlic and tomato paste cook for about a minute until fragrant—this step wakes up the sauce with intense aroma and depth.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Other Flavorful Ingredients

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers. These ingredients bring layers of juiciness, tang, and a hint of briny brightness that complement the richness of the chicken flawlessly. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, getting those flavors cozy together.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

Now nestle your seared chicken thighs right back into that luscious sauce, spooning some over the top to keep them lovely and moist. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the chicken becomes tender and soaks up those vibrant tastes. The sauce thickens into a hearty, soul-satisfying marvel.

Step 5: Final Touches for Serving

Once your chicken is cooked through and tender, remove the rosemary sprig—it’s done its work!

Finish by sprinkling plenty of fresh basil and parsley over the top. These herbs bring a fresh, lively contrast that brightens the whole dish and makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley isn’t just for looks—they add wonderful color and a herbaceous kick that balances the earthy tomato sauce perfectly. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving will make it shine.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe shines when paired with simple, comforting sides. A bed of al dente pasta is classic, soaking up every luscious bit of sauce. But don’t stop there—fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a crusty baguette are all fantastic choices to round out the meal. Each brings its own texture and comfort to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic vibe, serve the chicken and sauce family-style straight from the skillet, letting everyone dig in. Or, for a bit more elegance, plate the thighs atop a neat pile of creamy polenta and garnish carefully with fresh herbs. Either way, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from your Chicken Cacciatore Recipe keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. The sauce may thicken after chilling; just add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it up.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or busy nights. After cooling completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When thawed and reheated, the flavors remain rich and the chicken tender, just like freshly made.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly warm the chicken and sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot. Adding a splash of water or broth helps revive the sauce’s original sauciness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended because they stay juicier and more flavorful during the long simmer. If you opt for breasts, keep a close eye to avoid drying them out by shortening the cooking time.

What can I substitute for capers?

If you don’t have capers on hand, chopped green olives or a small squeeze of lemon juice can provide a similar salty, tangy note that complements the tomato sauce nicely.

Is this dish spicy?

The traditional Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is mild and focuses on herbaceous and savory flavors. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat, but it’s delicious without any spice.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and flavorful.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid naturally. Alternatively, stirring in a small spoonful of tomato paste at the end can add body without altering the flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is a timeless celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an unforgettable meal full of comfort and Italian flair. Once you try it, the tender chicken, savory sauce, and vibrant accents will quickly become a family favorite. So grab your skillet and get cooking—you’re in for a delicious adventure you’ll want to make again and again!

Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish featuring succulent bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and Italian seasoning. Garnished with fresh basil and parsley, this hearty meal is perfect served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

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Ingredients

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For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 ½ tsp salt, divided
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp capers, drained

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin, then season all over with 1 tsp salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat Olive Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for searing.
3. Sear Chicken Skin-Side Down: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 8-10 minutes until the skin becomes golden brown and crisp.
4. Flip Chicken: Turn the chicken thighs over and cook for another 3 minutes to sear the other side, then remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
5. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and sliced cremini mushrooms.
6. Season and Cook Vegetables: Sprinkle the remaining ½ tsp salt and sauté the vegetables for about 7 minutes until they soften and release their flavors.
7. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and the fresh rosemary sprig; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Add Tomatoes and Other Ingredients: Pour in crushed tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and drained capers, stirring to combine everything.
9. Simmer Sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
10. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece.
11. Simmer Covered: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
12. Finish and Garnish: Remove the rosemary sprig, then sprinkle the dish generously with fresh chopped basil and parsley.
13. Serve: Serve the Chicken Cacciatore warm, ideally paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.

Notes

• Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before searing to get a crisp skin.
• You can substitute cremini mushrooms with button mushrooms if preferred.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes along with Italian seasoning.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make great reheated meals.
• To make the dish gluten-free, serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian