If you have ever dreamed of a dish that brims with rustic Italian charm and bold, comforting flavors, this Chicken Cacciatore Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. It masterfully combines tender, golden chicken thighs with a vibrant sauce crafted from fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Every bite delivers a satisfying harmony of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy notes that feels like a warm hug from the Italian countryside. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or a cozy dinner party, this dish promises simplicity without compromising on that rich, soulful taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe keeps things straightforward but never dull. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, contributing to the texture, or adding those bursts of color that make the dish so appetizing. From the juicy chicken thighs to the robust blend of tomatoes and herbs, it’s all about balance.
- Chicken thighs (4 bone-in, skin-on): The star of the show, these provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during slow cooking.
- Salt (1 ½ tsp, divided): Essential for seasoning at different stages to enhance flavor throughout the dish.
- Black pepper (1 tsp, freshly ground): Adds a subtle heat and depth to the chicken and sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): The golden base for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables for that classic Italian aroma.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Brings sweetness and foundational flavor to the sauce.
- Red bell pepper (1, chopped): Adds a pop of color and gentle sweetness, enhancing the sauce’s complexity.
- Cremini mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Their earthiness complements the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a fragrant warmth that lifts every component.
- Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor, giving the sauce a rich, hearty base.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): The cornerstone of the sauce, bringing a luscious texture and brightness.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flair to the dish.
- Fresh rosemary (1 sprig): Adds a piney, aromatic note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (¼ cup, chopped): Their concentrated sweetness and slight tang add layers of flavor.
- Capers (2 tbsp, drained): Offer a briny punch that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
- Fresh basil (¼ cup, chopped, for garnish): Introduces a burst of herbal freshness at the end.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish): Adds a clean, bright finish that visually uplifts the dish.
How to Make Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Step 1: Preparing and Seasoning the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin, then liberally season with 1 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for flavor and helps create that golden, caramelized crust you want when searing.
Step 2: Searing the Chicken to Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sear undisturbed for 8 to 10 minutes until the skin turns a gorgeous golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a wonderful texture contrast. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes before transferring the chicken to a plate; this sets it aside while you build your sauce.
Step 3: Building the Flavorful Base
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and sliced cremini mushrooms. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and sauté for about 7 minutes until the veggies soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This mixture is the heart of your sauce and brings vibrant color and texture.
Step 4: Infusing the Aromatics and Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and the fresh rosemary sprig. Let this cook for about a minute until wonderfully fragrant — this brief step lets the garlic mellow and the herbs awaken, forming a beautiful flavor foundation.
Step 5: Crafting the Rich Tomato Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and drained capers. Stir to combine everything evenly. As the sauce heats up and begins to simmer, it thickens and gathers intensity, developing deep, layered flavors that are essential in this Chicken Cacciatore Recipe.
Step 6: Simmering the Chicken in Sauce
Gently nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes. This slow cooking makes the chicken irresistibly tender and allows the sauce to thicken and soak deep into the meat.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove the rosemary sprig, and sprinkle fresh chopped basil and parsley over the top. These fresh herbs brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise, providing a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil and parsley are your go-to garnishes here, adding not only a pop of green but also a fragrant burst that complements the robust flavors of the sauce. A light drizzle of good olive oil right before serving lifts everything beautifully, making each forkful inviting and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs brilliantly with a variety of comforting sides. Classic Italian pasta like pappardelle or rigatoni soak up the sauce splendidly, while creamy polenta or simple steamed rice offer softer, mellow backgrounds. Don’t forget crusty bread—it’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, plate the chicken atop a bed of pasta or creamy polenta, then ladle the sauce generously around it. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a touch of decadence. For a rustic twist, serve the entire skillet family-style at the table, inviting everyone to dig right in and share the warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious option for planned meals.
Freezing
For long-term storage, this recipe freezes wonderfully. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It keeps for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken and prevent the sauce from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can, but chicken thighs are preferred for this dish due to their tenderness and flavor. Breasts tend to dry out during the slow simmering process, so if you use them, be sure to monitor cooking closely and consider reducing the simmer time.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes for this recipe?
No peeling is necessary since you’re using crushed canned tomatoes. They offer convenience while providing great flavor and texture that’s perfect for the sauce.
Is sun-dried tomato optional?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth and subtle sweetness to the sauce, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can skip them or substitute with a handful of chopped roasted red peppers.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides like rice or gluten-free pasta. Always double-check canned ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten.
What wine pairs best with Chicken Cacciatore?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce and herbaceous flavors beautifully. If you prefer white wine, a dry Pinot Grigio works nicely too.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe is one of those dishes that feels cozy, soulful, and downright satisfying every time you make it. Its balance of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory tomato sauce offers a beautiful taste of Italy in your own kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser and so rewarding to create. You might just find your new favorite go-to comfort food!
Print
Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish featuring tender, bone-in chicken thighs simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce loaded with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Enhanced with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and fresh herbs, this hearty, rustic meal is perfect served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 ½ tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
For Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin and season both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 8-10 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and cook: Turn the chicken thighs over and cook for an additional 3 minutes to brown the other side, then remove and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and sliced cremini mushrooms. Season with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and sauté for about 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add aromatics and seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to develop the flavors.
- Add tomatoes and additional ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and drained capers. Stir to combine well.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Return chicken to skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the tomato sauce, spooning sauce over the top to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook through: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer gently for 30-35 minutes until it is tender and cooked through.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the rosemary sprig from the skillet and sprinkle fresh chopped basil and parsley over the top for a fresh, herbal finish.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and sauce warm, pairing it with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are preferred for their flavor and tenderness but you can use boneless if desired, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness; you may substitute with roasted red peppers if unavailable.
- For a thicker sauce, uncover the skillet during the last 10 minutes of simmering to reduce excess liquid.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day after flavors have melded.
- This dish freezes well; reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
