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Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore
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Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian stew featuring tender bone-in chicken thighs simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, onion, bell peppers, and aromatic herbs. This quick and easy recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights while delivering satisfying, hearty flavors. Serve it over pasta, rice, or creamy polenta for a comforting family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

Liquids

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces skin-side down until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside to lock in juices and develop flavor.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, creating the flavorful base for the sauce.
  3. Deglaze and Build the Sauce: Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens beautifully.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the finished dish. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or creamy polenta for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier meat and richer sauce flavor.
  • Searing chicken well develops a flavorful golden crust.
  • Simmer gently on low heat to tenderize chicken and meld flavors.
  • Customize herbs by adding fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes off heat to deepen flavors before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Cacciatore, Italian stew, quick chicken recipe, one-pot meal, bone-in chicken, tomato sauce

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/chicken-cacciatore/