Looking for a delicious and satisfying second course that will impress your guests? Look no further than this savory Chicken Cacciatore recipe. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, this traditional Italian dish is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on everyone at your table.
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– Salt and pepper
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step will sear the chicken and lock in its juices, resulting in moist and flavorful meat.
Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic flavors. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms, and cook until they are tender.
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, followed by the red wine. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. These dried herbs will give the cacciatore its characteristic earthy and herbaceous flavors.
Return the chicken pieces back to the skillet, making sure they are well-coated with the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce, resulting in tender and succulent meat.
While the chicken is simmering, take this opportunity to prepare the side dish that will complement the cacciatore. A classic choice would be a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or a side of al dente spaghetti. These options will help soak up the flavorful sauce and complete the meal perfectly.
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and check the chicken for doneness. The meat should be tender and cooked through. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, continue simmering for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Once the chicken cacciatore is done, you can serve it directly from the skillet, or transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a touch of freshness and color. Pair it with your chosen side dish, and voila! Your memorable second course is ready to be enjoyed.
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Its comforting flavors and juicy chicken will leave your guests wanting more. So, next time you’re looking to impress, give this savory recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed hit that will make your second course a memorable one.