There’s a certain comfort that comes from the rich, savory aroma of Chicken Cacciatore wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth just like a beloved family memory. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like this classic Italian dish to restore the spirit and satisfy those cravings for home-cooked goodness. Picture succulent chicken thighs, perfectly seared and nestled among vibrant bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together in a luscious tomato sauce.

I found this delightful recipe during one of my culinary adventures, searching for a way to reinvent my usual dinner rotation. As the chicken bubbles softly in the sauce, the blend of flavors creates an irresistible symphony that has become a beloved staple in my home. It’s a dish that not only evokes the essence of family gatherings but also offers the flexibility to adapt to your pantry’s treasures. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this hearty Chicken Cacciatore, bringing a taste of Italy right to your dining table!

Why will you love this Chicken Cacciatore?

Comforting Aroma: As it simmers, the delightful scent of herbs and garlic fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Hearty Ingredients: Tender chicken thighs mingle with a colorful medley of bell peppers and earthy mushrooms, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

Family-Friendly Dish: This classic Italian meal is sure to become a favorite among family members of all ages.

Easy Prep: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve in no time.

Versatile Options: Adapt this recipe to your taste by adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with spice levels. Transform it into a gluten-free masterpiece with simple substitutions, making it a perfect fit for any dietary needs.

Chicken Cacciatore Ingredients

• Unlock the rich flavors of Chicken Cacciatore with these simple ingredients.

For the Chicken

Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dish and helps with browning the chicken; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Bone-In Skin-On Chicken Thighs – Provides flavor and moisture; boneless skinless thighs or breasts can be used for a leaner option.

For the Veggies

Bell Peppers – Offers sweetness and color; a mix of red and green is preferred for visual appeal, but feel free to use your favorites.
Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness; yellow or white onions work best in this dish.
Mushrooms – Contributes an earthy flavor; try using cremini or button mushrooms if preferred.

For the Flavor

Garlic – Enhances flavor depth; fresh minced garlic gives the best taste.
Kalamata Olives – Adds briny notes; swapping them for green olives introduces a different flavor profile.
White Wine – Helps deglaze the pan and enhances flavor; for a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth works great.

For the Sauce

Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce; do not drain to keep it moist and rich.
Tomato Sauce & Tomato Paste – Adds more tomato flavor and thickness to the sauce.
Italian Seasoning – Brings herbal notes; an oregano, basil, and thyme mix is a good substitute.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors throughout.

For the Garnish

Parsley – Use it as a fresh garnish for color and a pop of flavor.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken to perfection.
Sear the Chicken: In a large deep pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bone-in chicken thighs with salt and pepper, cooking skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the chicken from the pan. Add the remaining olive oil, along with the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the same pan. Sauté until vegetables are softened, roughly 7-9 minutes. Add fresh minced garlic and Kalamata olives, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, allowing it to simmer and reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes.
Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing all ingredients thoroughly to create a rich sauce.
Return the Chicken to the Pan: Place the chicken back into the pan, spooning sauce over it. Cover the pan and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve this delightful Chicken Cacciatore over pasta, crusty bread, or rice to soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Chicken Cacciatore in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknight meals! You can marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, chop the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms the night before and store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepped vegetables and deglaze the pan as the recipe states, adding the marinated chicken directly into the mix. For best results, assemble everything up to the baking stage and refrigerate, then bake directly from the refrigerator—just allow for a few extra minutes in the oven. Your Chicken Cacciatore will be just as delicious, saving you time and effort!

What to Serve with Chicken Cacciatore?

Create a delightful pairing that enhances the warmth and charm of your Chicken Cacciatore experience.

Creamy Polenta: The velvety texture of polenta complements the rustic sauce beautifully, soaking up all those rich flavors while adding a comforting element.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and warm, garlic bread offers a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken, perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Italian Mixed Salad: A salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and olives provides a refreshing, crisp balance, cutting through the richness of the cacciatore.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted squash, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts add a beautiful color palette while spotlighting the fresh flavors in this dish.
Pasta: Serve it over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal; the pasta acts as a lovely canvas for the savory sauce and chicken.
Red Wine: A robust Merlot or Chianti perfectly complements the flavors of the Chicken Cacciatore, enhancing the dining experience with every sip.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert; its creamy layers and coffee flavor create a delightful contrast to the savory main course.

Elevate your dinner by choosing these pairings, each one styled to bring out the best in your Chicken Cacciatore!

Chicken Cacciatore Variations

Customize your Chicken Cacciatore with these delightful twists to suit your palate and pantry!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice to serve instead of traditional pasta, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetable Medley: Substitute zucchini or seasonal vegetables for the bell peppers, enhancing the dish with colors and flavors you love.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat that brings a whole new dimension to the dish.
Lean Protein: Swap the chicken for rabbit or turkey for a unique flavor profile; both options keep the dish light yet satisfying.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning; it gives a vibrant freshness to the sauce.
Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving for a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the dish.
Umami Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for an extra umami punch, making each bite even more flavorful.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon or lime right before serving can brighten the rich flavors and add a refreshing zing to your meal.

Storage Tips for Chicken Cacciatore

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy meal prep.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain sauce consistency.

Thawing: When freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Chicken Cacciatore

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and moisture; boneless can dry out more easily.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Searing the chicken properly takes time—this step creates a delicious depth of flavor that enhances the Chicken Cacciatore.
Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving; adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for the best flavor balance.
Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Embrace Leftovers: Cacciatore flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day enjoyment. Store in an airtight container for fresh meals.

Chicken Cacciatore Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Cacciatore?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for boneless skinless thighs or chicken breasts, but do keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may dry out more easily.

How should I store leftover Chicken Cacciatore?
Store your leftover Chicken Cacciatore in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve its delightful flavors.

Can I freeze Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Cacciatore for up to 3 months. Portion it out into airtight containers or freezer bags for easy meal prep. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep the sauce moist.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, you have a couple of options! First, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to help thicken it. If you prefer, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and then add it to the sauce while it simmers, stirring continuously until thickened.

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Cacciatore?
Very! Feel free to substitute zucchini, eggplant, or seasonal vegetables in place of bell peppers. For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick. This dish is wonderfully versatile, so make it your own!

Is Chicken Cacciatore suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Indeed it is! To make a gluten-free version of Chicken Cacciatore, simply ensure that any canned sauces or broths used are labeled gluten-free, and skip any thickeners that might contain gluten. The recipe is easy to adapt to fit dietary needs while still offering that classic Italian comfort!