Name: Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup dry red wine (optional); 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe. This timeless Italian classic brings together tender, golden chicken pieces slowly simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce loaded with vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs. Each bite bursts with layers of comforting flavors that make it perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with honest, soulful cuisine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw chicken thighs placed in a white bowl on the bottom left. Next to the chicken is a green bell pepper with a smooth and shiny surface. Above the pepper is a jar of grilled artichoke halves with a pale green label and artichoke drawing. To the right of the jar is a white tray filled with sliced brown mushrooms. Above the mushrooms, there is a yellow onion with dry brown skin and green thyme sprigs nearby. Near the center, a small white bowl holds a mixture of dried herbs and red spices. To the left of the bowl is a dark bottle of red wine with a white label. A can of tomato paste with a red tomato image is placed near the onion, and below the mushrooms is a white can with red tomatoes printed on it. All items are arranged on a white marbled textured surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s truly delightful about this recipe is how the simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Every element plays its part—from the hearty chicken thighs that soak up those luscious tomato flavors, to the colorful peppers adding both sweetness and crunch, and the herbs that bring the whole stew to life.

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks: These provide juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin once browned.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential to season the chicken and balance the sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables, adding richness.
1 small onion, sliced: Brings mild sweetness and a soft texture when cooked.
1 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers vivid color and a fruity bite to the stew.
1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter note to contrast the tomatoes.
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Earthy mushrooms deepen the stew’s complexity and absorb sauce beautifully.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: For that classic Italian herb flavor that feels like home.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, fragrant floral notes.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat to wake up your taste buds.
½ cup dry red wine (optional): Enriches the sauce with depth and a subtle tang.
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The rich tomato base that brings body and acidity.
½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce luscious and balances flavors.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish: Adds brightness and a fresh herbaceous finish.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and black pepper. Heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, carefully place the chicken skin-side down to brown until golden and crisp—about 5 to 6 minutes per side. This initial browning step is crucial because it locks in juices and builds layers of flavor through the Maillard reaction. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same flavorful pan, toss in sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook them until they become tender and slightly caramelized, around 5 to 7 minutes. This step softens the vegetables and concentrates their flavors, setting the perfect foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with dried oregano, basil, and if you like a touch of spice, red pepper flakes. Let these aromatics cook for about 30 seconds until their fragrance fills your kitchen. This quick step brings the Italian essence to the forefront and awakens all the senses.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

If using, pour in the dry red wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and contributing a complex, fruity depth to the sauce that makes this Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe extra special.

Step 5: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Now, add in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir everything together to combine, then nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the pan. Cover and let the stew simmer gently for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. This slow cooking melds all the flavors beautifully, creating a rich, comforting sauce infused with the essence of the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Before serving, taste your stew and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a vibrant, fresh contrast that truly elevates the dish.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are a must for that pop of freshness that balances the rich, hearty stew. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also add a subtle nutty depth if you want to get a little indulgent.

Side Dishes

Chicken Cacciatore is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or soft polenta is a classic choice that allows the sauce to shine. You could also pair it with simple buttered pasta or crusty Italian bread to soak up every delicious drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic family-style meal, serve the stew directly from the Dutch oven at the center of the table. Alternatively, create individual plates with a bed of polenta, topped with a generous ladle of Chicken Cacciatore and a fresh herb garnish to impress guests with elegant simplicity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Cacciatore actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This recipe is a perfect candidate for meal prepping your week’s dinners.

Freezing

This stew freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight before reheating. It’s a lifesaver for busy days when a comforting meal is needed in a flash.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickened during storage or freezing.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work well and cook faster. Just reduce the simmering time by about 10 minutes so the meat stays juicy and tender without drying out.

Is red wine necessary for the recipe?

Red wine adds wonderful depth and richness, but if you prefer to leave it out, simply substitute with extra chicken broth. The stew will still be deliciously flavorful.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your chicken broth and tomato paste labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives.

What are some good alternatives to mushrooms?

If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to swap them for diced zucchini or eggplant. Both provide a nice texture and absorb the sauce beautifully.

Can Chicken Cacciatore be made in a slow cooker?

Definitely! After browning the chicken and sautéing veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours. It’s an easy way to develop rich flavors with minimal hands-on time.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy satisfaction of Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and share with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it promises layers of heartwarming flavor that feel lovingly homemade. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner!