Chicken Cacciatore, also known as “hunter-style chicken,” is a rustic and hearty dish that originated in Italy. The name itself comes from the Italian word “cacciatore,” which means hunter. Traditionally, this dish was made with game meat that hunters caught during their excursions. However, in modern times, chicken has become the most popular choice for this recipe.
To make this Easy Chicken Cacciatore, you will need the following ingredients: chicken pieces (preferably skin-on and bone-in), olive oil, onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine, chicken broth, fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme), salt, and pepper.
Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and adding a generous drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and brown them on both sides until they develop a golden crust. This step imparts a delicious flavor to the chicken and gives it a beautiful color.
Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant. The combination of these aromatic vegetables adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Next, add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine, and chicken broth to the skillet. Give it a good stir, scraping off any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the taste of the sauce.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to blend together harmoniously, resulting in a deeply flavorful sauce.
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs over the chicken cacciatore. The vibrant green herbs add a pop of freshness and a burst of flavor to the dish.
Chicken Cacciatore goes wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and well-rounded second course.
With its rich flavors and tender chicken, this Easy Chicken Cacciatore recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests. They will be amazed at how effortless it is to create such a flavorful and satisfying dish. So, next time you’re in need of a show-stopping dinner, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!