The Chicken Cacciatore, or “hunter’s chicken,” is a beloved Italian dish full of rustic charm. It’s made with tender chicken simmered in a hearty tomato sauce with onions, garlic, peppers, mushrooms, and herbs. The slow cooking brings out deep, rich flavors that make this meal comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
-
4 bone-in chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (or 4 chicken breasts if preferred)
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 medium onion, finely sliced
-
1 red bell pepper, sliced
-
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 cup sliced mushrooms
-
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
-
½ cup chicken broth
-
½ cup dry red wine (optional but traditional)
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 tsp dried basil
-
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for a little heat)
-
2 tbsp tomato paste
-
1 tbsp capers or olives (optional for tang)
-
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooking Time
-
Prep time: 15 minutes
-
Cook time: 45 minutes
-
Total time: 1 hour
Serving
-
Serves 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the chicken:
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. -
Cook the vegetables:
In the same pan, add the onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Build the sauce:
Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, broth, red wine, oregano, basil, and chili flakes. Mix well and bring to a simmer. -
Add chicken back in:
Nestle the chicken into the sauce, cover, and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. -
Finish and serve:
Stir in capers or olives if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips
-
For a thicker sauce, uncover and simmer for an extra 10 minutes.
-
Serve over spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
-
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
-
Calories: 410
-
Protein: 38g
-
Fat: 22g
-
Carbohydrates: 14g
-
Fiber: 3g
-
Sodium: 670mg
The Chicken Cacciatore delivers bold, home-style Italian flavors in every bite — tender chicken simmered in a rich, herby tomato sauce that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.
