The Only Chicken Cacciatore Recipe You Will Ever Need

Chicken cacciatore, a classic Italian chicken stew, has long been cherished for its rich flavors and comforting appeal. This rustic dish, deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition, brings together succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and a medley of vegetables simmered to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner eager to explore Italian cuisine, this chicken cacciatore recipe offers a delightful journey into the heart of traditional Italian cooking. With its inviting aroma and robust taste, chicken cacciatore is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings the warmth of Italian hospitality to your table.

Ingredients for Chicken Cacciatore

To create an authentic Italian chicken cacciatore, you will need the following essential ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Add bell peppers and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the chicken stew for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Uncover the skillet and let the sauce reduce slightly for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cacciatore

To elevate the flavors of your chicken cacciatore, consider the following tips:

• Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in pieces add depth to the stew’s flavor, enriching the sauce as it simmers.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances the melding of flavors.
• Fresh herbs: Incorporating fresh basil or parsley before serving adds a vibrant touch and freshness to the dish.

Variations of Chicken Cacciatore

While the traditional recipe is delightful, here are two popular variations to try:

Chicken Cacciatore with Mushrooms

Adding mushrooms to chicken cacciatore introduces an earthy flavor and texture. Simply increase the quantity of mushrooms in the recipe, using a mix of button and cremini mushrooms for added depth.

Chicken Cacciatore with Olives

Incorporate briny olives for a Mediterranean twist. Add a handful of black or green olives to the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking to infuse the dish with their distinctive taste.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken cacciatore is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Here are three serving ideas:

• Polenta: Serve the stew over creamy polenta for an authentic Italian experience.
• Pasta: Pair with al dente pasta to soak up the rich sauce.
• Crusty bread: Offer crusty Italian bread to mop up the flavorful sauce.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Cacciatore

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers without compromising taste:

• Refrigeration: Store chicken cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.