Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore is the kind of dish that warms your soul while making your kitchen smell like an Italian countryside trattoria. Rustic, hearty, and bursting with rich flavors, this classic hunter-style chicken stew has been passed down through generations as the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, slow-simmered in a luscious tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and fragrant herbs—it’s a dish that delivers deep, satisfying flavors with every bite.

The name “cacciatore” means “hunter” in Italian, and this dish was traditionally made by hunters who cooked wild game with whatever ingredients they had on hand. Over time, the recipe evolved, with chicken becoming the most popular protein choice. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a rich, slow-cooked sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Unlike many Italian dishes that require hours of preparation, Chicken Cacciatore is surprisingly simple to make, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

What makes this dish truly shine is its depth of flavor. The chicken is first seared to lock in juices, then slowly braised in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This cooking method ensures that the meat stays moist and tender while absorbing all the savory goodness from the sauce. Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti, creamy polenta, or just enjoying it on its own, Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless dish that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cacciatore

This dish is pure comfort food with an irresistible combination of juicy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs that create a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal, here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe.

First, it’s easy to make yet tastes like it took hours to prepare. While the flavors are deep and complex, the actual cooking process is simple and requires minimal effort. After browning the chicken, everything simmers together in one pot, allowing the ingredients to blend beautifully while filling your home with mouthwatering aromas.

Second, it’s a healthy, well-balanced meal. Unlike many comfort foods that are heavy on carbs and fat, Chicken Cacciatore is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and heart-healthy tomatoes. The slow-simmered sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the peppers and onions, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile. While traditionally served over pasta, you can also enjoy it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this a fantastic make-ahead meal that only gets more flavorful over time.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4-6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients for Chicken Cacciatore

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)
• 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• ½ cup black or green olives, sliced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cacciatore

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This helps lock in flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust when searing.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then stir in the salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. If using, add the sliced olives for extra depth of flavor. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the pan, spooning some of the sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in Chicken Cacciatore plays a key role in building the deep, rustic flavors of this beloved dish. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important components.

Chicken: The Star of the Dish

Traditionally, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks are used in Chicken Cacciatore because they remain juicy and flavorful when simmered. The bone adds richness to the sauce, and the slow cooking process allows the chicken to become fork-tender. While boneless chicken can be used, it won’t deliver quite the same depth of flavor.

Tomatoes: The Foundation of the Sauce

Tomatoes are the heart of the cacciatore sauce. Using crushed tomatoes provides a thick, velvety texture, while diced tomatoes (if added) can introduce more body. The slow simmering process helps break down the tomatoes, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through while balancing their acidity.

Bell Peppers and Mushrooms: The Classic Additions

Bell peppers add a slight sweetness and a hint of crunch, while mushrooms bring an earthy, umami depth to the sauce. These vegetables enhance the rustic quality of the dish, giving it more texture and richness. If you prefer a deeper flavor, try roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the sauce.

Technique Tips for Chicken Cacciatore

Mastering Chicken Cacciatore comes down to a few simple but essential techniques that enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

1. Sear the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Browning the chicken before simmering is crucial. The caramelization that happens during searing develops a rich, deep flavor that will infuse into the sauce. Avoid overcrowding the pan—sear the chicken in batches if needed.

2. Simmer Low and Slow

The magic of Chicken Cacciatore happens during the slow simmering process. Cooking on low heat for 30-40 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken stays tender and absorbs the sauce. If you have extra time, let it simmer for up to an hour for an even richer taste.

3. Let the Sauce Thicken Naturally

Avoid the temptation to rush the process by adding a thickener. As the sauce simmers, the tomatoes naturally reduce, creating a rich, concentrated flavor. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last 10 minutes.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While Chicken Cacciatore is traditionally served over pasta, there are several creative ways to present this dish.

1. Served Over Creamy Polenta

For a rustic Italian touch, serve Chicken Cacciatore over buttery polenta. The creamy, slightly sweet polenta soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully, creating an incredibly comforting dish.

2. Shredded Chicken Cacciatore Sandwiches

For a fun twist, shred the cooked chicken and serve it on toasted ciabatta or crusty rolls. Add a little melted mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a hearty, Italian-style sandwich.

3. Baked Cacciatore Casserole

Mix the finished Chicken Cacciatore with cooked penne pasta, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Freezing and Storing Chicken Cacciatore

This dish is ideal for meal prepping because it stores and reheats beautifully.

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

Allow the Chicken Cacciatore to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Chicken Cacciatore freezes exceptionally well. To freeze:

• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.

3. Meal Prep Tips

If meal prepping, store the sauce separately from pasta or rice to prevent it from becoming soggy. This way, you can mix fresh pasta with the sauce each time you serve it.

Healthier Twist Ideas

While Chicken Cacciatore is already a wholesome dish, here are a few ways to make it even healthier:

1. Swap Chicken for a Leaner Protein

For a leaner option, replace chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even turkey cutlets. If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time to 25-30 minutes to prevent them from drying out.

2. Reduce the Oil and Sodium

Cut back on the olive oil by sautéing the vegetables in a little chicken broth instead. Also, use low-sodium canned tomatoes to control the salt content.

3. Serve with Low-Carb Alternatives

Instead of pasta, try serving Chicken Cacciatore over zucchini noodles (zoodles), cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash for a low-carb, nutrient-dense meal.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Chicken Cacciatore is perfect for gatherings, as it’s easy to make in large batches and tastes even better the next day.

1. Family-Style Italian Feast

Serve Chicken Cacciatore with a side of garlic bread, a simple Caprese salad, and a glass of sparkling water with lemon for a true Italian dining experience.

2. Cozy Date Night Dinner

For an intimate dinner, plate the Chicken Cacciatore over a bed of creamy polenta with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil on top. Pair with a light, crisp salad.

3. Potluck or Party Dish

Since Chicken Cacciatore stays warm for a long time, it’s an ideal dish for potlucks. Serve it in a slow cooker on the warm setting, allowing guests to spoon it over pasta or rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Cacciatore in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chicken first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

2. What’s the best side dish for Chicken Cacciatore?

Pasta, rice, polenta, or even mashed potatoes all work beautifully as side dishes. A simple side salad and garlic bread complete the meal.

3. Can I make it without wine?

Absolutely! Many recipes include wine, but this version omits it while still achieving deep, rich flavors. You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra tangy depth.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.

5. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover Chicken Cacciatore can be shredded and used in sandwiches, stuffed bell peppers, or pasta bakes for a delicious second meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless Italian classic that combines simple ingredients with deep, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish never disappoints. Serve it over pasta, polenta, or rice, and enjoy every bite of its rich, slow-simmered goodness.

Try it today and bring a taste of rustic Italian comfort to your table!

Print