Best Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that brings rustic flavors and homestyle comfort to your table. Made with tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato based sauce, it is infused with herbs, garlic, onions, and peppers for a depth of flavor that feels both hearty and satisfying. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the sauce, creating a meal that is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy an authentic Italian dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you are new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a delicious way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table.
Why You Need This Recipe
Chicken Cacciatore is more than just a meal, it is a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and tradition in every bite. The combination of tender chicken, a savory tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs creates a dinner that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Unlike many complex Italian dishes, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Another reason you need this recipe is its flexibility. You can serve it over pasta for a hearty meal, pair it with rice for a lighter option, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It is also a one pot dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your food. If you are looking for a recipe that delivers restaurant quality taste with simple ingredients, Chicken Cacciatore is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
A well balanced mix of fresh ingredients makes this Chicken Cacciatore both flavorful and nourishing. Below is a simple breakdown of what you will need along with approximate calorie counts per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in) | 6 pieces | 600 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 2 medium | 60 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 1 cup | 20 |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (28 oz) | 150 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | 15 |
| Red wine (optional) | 1/2 cup | 125 |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 0 |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons | 5 |
Total Calories (per serving, approx. 4 servings): 330–350
How to Prepare
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, then heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, then remove it from the pan and set aside. This step locks in the flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful texture.
In the same pan, add onions, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables become soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness. Stir in tomato paste for richness, followed by crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and a splash of red wine if you are using it. Add oregano, basil, and a bay leaf to build layers of authentic Italian flavor.
Return the seared chicken to the pan, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Before serving, remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair this dish with pasta, rice, or warm crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips
For the best flavour, use bone in chicken thighs as they stay juicy and add richness to the sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
Always take time to brown the chicken before simmering, as this step enhances both flavor and texture. Deglazing the pan with a splash of wine or broth after sautéing the vegetables will lift all the delicious browned bits and deepen the taste of your sauce.
If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. For a lighter version, you can skip the wine and use extra broth. Pairing the dish with al dente pasta or fresh bread helps soak up every drop of the savory sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.
Conclusion
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and elegance to the dinner table with very little effort. Its tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and hearty vegetables make it a recipe that everyone will love. Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a special meal for guests, this dish always delivers warmth and flavour.
With its simple ingredients and flexible serving options, Chicken Cacciatore proves that home cooked meals can be both easy and memorable. Try it once, and it will surely become a favourite in your kitchen that you will return to again and again.
