Description
Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian stew featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. This hearty and flavorful one-pot meal is perfect over pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
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Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
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Olive oil
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Onion
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Garlic
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Bell peppers (red and green)
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Mushrooms (optional)
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Canned diced tomatoes
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Tomato paste
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Dry white wine or chicken broth
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Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
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Salt and pepper
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish
Instructions
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Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown on both sides until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté vegetables: In the same pan, add diced onions, sliced bell peppers, and mushrooms (if using). Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
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Deglaze pan: Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
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Add tomatoes and herbs: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
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Simmer chicken: Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer on low for 30-40 minutes until cooked through and tender.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or polenta.
Notes
Add zucchini, olives, or capers for extra flavor.Increase red pepper flakes. Use boneless chicken for quicker cooking.Slow cooker option: Brown ingredients, then cook on low for 4-6 hours.
