Craving a comforting, savory meal that’s easy to make yet full of flavor? Chicken Cacciatore is the answer. This classic Italian dish is beloved for its tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with olives, herbs, and a medley of vegetables. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Not only is it delicious, but Chicken Cacciatore is also versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Let’s dive into why this dish is so special and why you’ll want to add it to your meal plan!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: With minimal ingredients like chicken, tomatoes, olives, and herbs, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.
- One-Pot Wonder: The recipe requires just one pot or pan, making it easy to clean up after a delicious meal.
- Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with lean protein, vegetables, and heart-healthy olive oil, Chicken Cacciatore is a wholesome dish that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s a great option for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- Versatile: Whether served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, Chicken Cacciatore is a meal that pairs well with any side.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Chicken Cacciatore
To create this Italian masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts for a leaner option)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup black olives (green olives can be used as a substitute)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Alternatives:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: No dairy is needed for this dish, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Cacciatore
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes & Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Add the olives, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer on low for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving. Pair with pasta, rice, or a crusty baguette for the perfect meal.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to make the dish even heartier.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version of this dish.
- Sweet Twist: Add a handful of sliced olives for a slightly sweet, tangy variation.
- Slow Cooker Version: You can easily make this in the slow cooker. Brown the chicken first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
How to Store & Reheat
Store any leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of Chicken Cacciatore, you’ll also love these delicious chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds:
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A crispy, golden parmesan crust on chicken paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce—perfect for any night of the week.
- Homemade Chicken Nuggets: These crispy, tender chicken nuggets are homemade and healthier than store-bought, with a golden crunch everyone will enjoy.
- Chicken Alfredo Recipe: A creamy, comforting dish with perfectly cooked chicken and fettuccine, smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce.
These recipes are all packed with flavor and offer a great variety of options for chicken lovers! Try them out and find your new favorite dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes! While bone-in chicken provides more flavor, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts will work just as well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead meal.
Is Chicken Cacciatore spicy?
Not necessarily. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the spice level according to your preferences.
Can I freeze Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe brings together everything you want in a comforting meal: rich flavor, tender chicken, and plenty of healthy ingredients. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and let us know what you think in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and follow us for more mouthwatering meals.
Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup black olives green olives as an alternative
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomatoes & Broth: Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up. Add olives, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cover and cook on low for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with rosemary and serve with pasta, rice, or bread.