This authentic Italian chicken cacciatore recipe is a classic dish that has been passed down through generations in my family. It features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with flavorful herbs and vegetables. Serve this comforting and satisfying dish over pasta or with crusty bread for the perfect Italian-inspired meal. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, my mom's chicken cacciatore will surely become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper, then coat them in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir in the black olives and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish the chicken cacciatore with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the chicken cacciatore over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Interesting Facts
Chicken cacciatore translates to 'hunter-style chicken' in English.
This dish originated in Italy and was traditionally made with game meat.
The flavorful sauce is enhanced by the combination of herbs, tomatoes, and wine.
Chicken cacciatore is a popular comfort food dish in many Italian-American households.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.