If you’re looking to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe. This classic Italian comfort food combines tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce loaded with colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Each bite delivers a beautiful balance of savory, slightly tangy, and herbaceous notes, all mingling in a luscious sauce that’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity paired with the rustic charm of fresh ingredients, making it a staple that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this hearty dish. From the fragrant herbs to the vibrant vegetables, every component adds its own character to the Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix including drumsticks): The skin crisps up beautifully and keeps the meat juicy and flavorful throughout cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness while helping brown the chicken to perfection.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings vibrant color and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the red pepper’s sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a gentle pungency and warmth.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional): Offers earthy flavors and a meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich and tangy base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): Adds acidity and complexity, perfect for deglazing the pan.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful while preventing it from becoming too thick.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Delivers classic Italian herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, peppery lift to the tomato sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, bright finish just before serving.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Adds a fragrant herbal touch and gorgeous presentation.
How to Make Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the hot oil and cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip the chicken over and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes. Once beautifully browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step is crucial for developing that irresistible flavor foundation in your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, sliced red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms if you’re using them. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften and their aromas fill your kitchen. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its fragrant essence. This vegetable medley will create the colorful, flavorful base of your sauce, so don’t rush this part.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan. This means you’ll be scraping up those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom—that’s pure flavor gold! Let the liquid simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and intensify. This step deepens the sauce’s complexity and blends all those savory bits seamlessly into the dish.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Season with a bit more salt and pepper to taste. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them gently into the sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. The tomatoes and herbs will marry beautifully, allowing your dish to develop that signature Italian farmhouse taste.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes, giving time for the chicken to cook through and become tender, while soaking up all those wonderful flavors. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This slow simmer also thickens the tomato sauce into that hearty texture that makes this recipe a star.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The secret finishing touch? Fresh chopped parsley and, if you like, some fresh basil leaves. They add a vibrant pop of green and a brightness to balance all the deep, rich flavors of the sauce. Plus, that fresh aroma right before serving makes the dish even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This classic chicken cacciatore pairs perfectly with fluffy pasta such as pappardelle or linguine to soak up the sauce. If you prefer something lighter, creamy polenta or soft, buttery mashed potatoes are fantastic choices. Or keep it rustic and serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping – every spoonful of sauce gets a delicious new home.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate the chicken atop a bed of polenta and drizzle extra sauce over the top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil and a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a restaurant-worthy finish. For a more casual vibe, serve family-style in the skillet so everyone can help themselves, creating an inviting experience filled with shared warmth and hearty flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld even more after sitting, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, it freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the chicken tenderness and prevents the sauce from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, using 30-second bursts until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can revive the sauce’s luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but bone-in thighs tend to stay juicier and impart more flavor during cooking. If using boneless, reduce simmer time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?
If you prefer to skip the wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute. It still helps deglaze the pan and adds moisture without overwhelming the other flavors in your Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can add the optional crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a hint of heat. It adds a subtle warmth that elevates the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, this recipe is great for making ahead. You can prepare the entire dish and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy it at its best.
What sides work best with Chicken Cacciatore?
Traditional pairings include pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad work wonderfully and balance the richness of the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a warm culinary hug. Each step, from browning the chicken to simmering the fragrant sauce, is a chance to build layers of comfort and flavor that bring everyone to the table smiling. So why wait? Gather those simple but vibrant ingredients and dive into a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Trust me, it’s destined to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
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Hearty Chicken Cacciatore with Vegetables and Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic Chicken Cacciatore recipe features tender, bone-in chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s a comforting Italian dish easy to prepare on the stovetop, perfect served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip chicken and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onions, sliced red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté the vegetables for 5-6 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the liquid to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet, partially submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for 30-35 minutes until it is fully cooked, tender, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Garnish the finished Chicken Cacciatore with freshly chopped parsley and optionally fresh basil leaves. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs deliver the best flavor and texture, but a mix of thighs and drumsticks works well.
- Optional mushrooms add earthiness; omit if preferred or unavailable.
- The white wine can be substituted with additional chicken broth if desired.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to brighten the dish when serving.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
