Description
Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. This hearty one-pan meal blends savory flavors and colorful vegetables, perfect for a comforting dinner served over pasta or grains.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Sauce
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the chicken cacciatore over whole-grain pasta, quinoa, or alongside a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of simmering to let it reduce.
- Chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add olives or capers for extra briny flavor.
- This recipe reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
