Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that translates to “hunter-style chicken.” This one-pot meal combines tender chicken thighs with a medley of vegetables, simmered in a robust tomato sauce flavored with dry white wine, garlic, and Italian herbs. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions add layers of flavor and texture, making this dish hearty and satisfying. The addition of balsamic vinegar gives a subtle sweetness and depth, while optional garnishes like fresh herbs and Parmesan elevate each serving. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this Chicken Cacciatore is both comforting and impressive.
Ingredients:
- For the Cacciatore:
- 6–8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless, as preferred)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (with juices)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (cremini or chopped portobello recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Warm a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Brown the chicken thighs for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they are golden and crispy. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until it becomes aromatic.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it reduce a little.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar. Place the chicken back into the pan, gently nestling it into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer the Cacciatore: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the flavors have melded. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Cacciatore warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion:
This rustic Chicken Cacciatore is a wonderful blend of tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, and hearty vegetables, creating a warm and inviting dish. With the depth of wine and balsamic vinegar, this Italian favorite is sure to become a go-to recipe for cozy dinners and family gatherings. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting flavors of Italy at home.
Rustic Chicken Cacciatore with Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
- 6 –8 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless, as preferred
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 2 –3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (with juices)
- 8 ounces mushrooms cremini or chopped portobello recommended
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Warm a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Brown the chicken thighs for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they are golden and crispy. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until it becomes aromatic.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it reduce a little.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar. Place the chicken back into the pan, gently nestling it into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer the Cacciatore: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the flavors have melded. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Cacciatore warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.