Classic Italian Chicken Cacciatore
There’s nothing quite like a hearty Italian dinner to bring comfort to your table, and this Chicken Cacciatore does just that. Bursting with rich tomato flavor, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs, this dish is a rustic classic that feels both cozy and elegant.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, Chicken Cacciatore is a one-pan wonder that pairs beautifully with polenta, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad. With its savory sauce, slow-simmered chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that warms both the kitchen and the soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Cacciatore:
- 3 lb. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
- 8 oz. bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 (14-oz.) can whole tomatoes, crushed by hand with juice reserved
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 Tbsp. capers, drained
- Fresh parsley, for serving
- Polenta or mashed potatoes, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Chicken Cacciatore:
Step 1 – Brown the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with 1½ teaspoons of salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook, undisturbed, until golden brown and crispy (about 8–10 minutes). Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate, skin-side up. Repeat with remaining chicken.
Step 2 – Cook the Vegetables
Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms with ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in garlic, rosemary, and Italian seasoning and cook for another minute.
Step 3 – Build the Sauce
Add tomato paste and stir until it darkens, about 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes with juice, white wine, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine, then add basil and capers.
Step 4 – Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, in a single layer. Simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5 – Serve & Enjoy
Divide creamy polenta or mashed potatoes among plates. Top with the chicken and spoon the rich sauce over it. Finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Best Chicken Cacciatore
- Use chicken thighs: They stay juicy and flavorful during the long simmering process.
- Don’t rush the browning step: This builds deep flavor in the sauce.
- Make it ahead: Like many tomato-based dishes, Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- Wine substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, swap it with chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This classic dish pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy polenta (traditional Italian style)
- Mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles
- A crisp green salad on the side
- Crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce
Conclusion
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a sauce that’s rich, savory, and full of Italian flavor. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for company.
Try it once, and it just might become a new family favorite. Serve it over polenta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta, and don’t forget the crusty bread for that irresistible sauce!
