Chicken cacciatore
Chicken cacciatore is a rustic Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with bacon, peppers, and a rich tomato sauce. This one-pot meal is infused with aromatic herbs and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil6 chicken thighs
3 bacon strips
1 red pepper
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp rosemary
1/3 cup white wine
1 can canned tomatoes
3/4 cup chicken gravy
2 bay leafs
1/4 cup fresh parsley
Chicken Cacciatore, also known as Hunter's Chicken, is a classic Italian dish brimming with rustic flavors. This hearty and comforting meal features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bacon, bell peppers, onions, and a blend of aromatic herbs. This recipe is perfect for both casual family dinners and special gatherings, delivering a taste of Italy right to your dining table.
Instructions:
- Slice the red pepper and onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the rosemary and fresh parsley.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the 6 chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down.
- Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the 3 bacon strips.
- Cook until crispy, then remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Use the bacon fat in the skillet to sauté the sliced red pepper and onion until they are soft and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the 1/3 cup white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add the can of tomatoes, 3/4 cup chicken gravy, and 2 bay leaves to the skillet.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Crumble the cooked bacon strips over the top.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
- Let the chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken is evenly coated and the sauce doesn't stick to the skillet.
- Remove the bay leaves from the skillet.
- Sprinkle the dish with the chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve the chicken cacciatore hot, with your choice of side such as pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
And there you have it—delicious, hearty Chicken Cacciatore that’s sure to become a family favorite. The blend of tender chicken, savory bacon, and robust tomato sauce creates an unforgettable dish packed with flavor. Enjoy it alongside some crusty bread or over a bed of pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Buon appetito!
Chicken cacciatore FAQ:
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the chicken should be tender and no longer pink at the bone.
Yes, if you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar diluted with a bit of water as an alternative. This will maintain moisture and flavor in the dish.
Store leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe. This will allow enough space for browning the chicken and simmering the sauce without spilling.
To adjust the spice level, you can add red pepper flakes or other spices to taste when sautéing the vegetables. Start with a small amount and increase gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Cooking Tips:
- For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the chicken thighs in the olive oil before adding them to the simmering sauce.
- Use a good quality white wine to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for added variety and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 490kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.28g
Sugar 6g
Fat 36g
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