Delicious Chicken Cacciatore with Rice

5 stars
4.81 (13)
Delicious Chicken Cacciatore with Rice
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 04, 2024

This Chicken Cacciatore with Rice recipe is a classic Italian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken pieces are cooked with a savory tomato-based sauce, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. The dish is then served over a bed of fluffy rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors. With a cooking time of just 45 minutes, you can have this amazing meal on the table in no time. It's a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy everyone's taste buds!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then coat them in flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Add the mushrooms and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet and add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  7. While the cacciatore is simmering, cook the rice according to package instructions.
  8. To serve, spoon the chicken cacciatore over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley.
  9. Enjoy this delicious chicken cacciatore with rice, a perfect comfort food for any occasion!

Interesting Facts

  • Chicken cacciatore is a traditional Italian dish that translates to 'hunter-style chicken.' It was originally prepared by hunters in the countryside who would use wild game instead of chicken.
  • The dish is known for its rich and hearty flavors, combining the sweetness of tomatoes with the tanginess of bell peppers and the earthiness of mushrooms.
  • Chicken cacciatore is often made with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, as they add more flavor to the dish. However, boneless, skinless chicken can also be used for a lighter version.
  • This recipe can be easily customized by adding other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or olives, depending on your personal preference.
  • The leftovers of chicken cacciatore taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.