Chicken Cacciatore: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, Chicken Cacciatore stands out as a beloved classic. This rustic Italian dish combines tender chicken with rich tomatoes, bell peppers, and aromatic herbs. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you serve it with pasta or crusty bread, Chicken Cacciatore provides a satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients
To create this delectable Chicken Cacciatore, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
– 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to form a flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. Make sure to use fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the taste of the dish.
Instructions
To make Chicken Cacciatore, follow these simple steps:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
7. Add minced garlic and sliced bell pepper; cook for another 2 minutes until softened.
8. Stir in canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil.
9. Bring the mixture to a simmer; then return the chicken to the skillet.
10. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
11. Check seasoning; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
12. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This Chicken Cacciatore recipe is straightforward yet rewarding, providing you with a delicious meal that is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy this dish with pasta or crusty bread to soak up all those wonderful flavors!
Tips and tricks
To make your Chicken Cacciatore truly memorable, consider following these helpful tips and tricks. First, choose bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for added flavor. Browning the chicken before simmering infuses rich taste into the sauce. Don’t skip on fresh herbs like basil and oregano; they enhance the dish significantly. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Pair your Chicken Cacciatore with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it over pasta or polenta. Lastly, remember that this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.
FAQs
What ingredients are essential for Chicken Cacciatore?
Chicken Cacciatore requires basic yet flavorful ingredients. You will need chicken pieces, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, olives, and herbs like thyme and oregano. Olive oil plays a key role in sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken. Make sure to use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best taste.
Can I make Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?
Yes, making Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time is a great idea! The flavors deepen as it sits in the refrigerator. Prepare it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Is Chicken Cacciatore suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Cacciatore for later enjoyment. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
##### Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken in a savory tomato sauce with peppers and herbs. The combination of flavors makes it perfect for family dinners or meal prep ideas. Enjoy this classic Italian recipe with loved ones for a delightful culinary experience.