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Chicken Cacciatore: Rustic Italian Chicken Stew in Tomato Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 33 reviews

Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian classic featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. This hearty and comforting dish is packed with bold flavors and is ideal for a satisfying family dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 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)

Liquids & Sauces

  • ½ cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and brown for 5 to 6 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onion, red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
  4. Add Aromatics and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds to release their aromas.
  5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry red wine to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Add Tomato Base: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste to create the sauce base.
  7. Simmer the Chicken: Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, cover, and simmer gently for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Boneless chicken thighs can be used for this recipe; however, reduce the cooking time accordingly.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully when served over pasta, polenta, or creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • Leftovers freeze well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://dishestocook.com/chicken-cacciatore-rustic-italian-chicken-stew-in-tomato-sauce-recipe/