Name: Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 1/2 to 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup pitted black or green olives; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

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If you’re craving an Italian dinner that feels like pure comfort and brings authentic flavors to the table, Chicken Cacciatore is your answer. This classic dish is beloved for its tender braised chicken nestled in a rich tomato sauce bursting with sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a tangle of aromatic herbs. Simmered together with a splash of wine and briny olives, every bite is hearty, rustic, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re hosting family or just want an unfussy meal that tastes special, Chicken Cacciatore never disappoints!

Chicken Cacciatore Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore lies in its humble, bold ingredients. Each one plays a role, building flavors and textures that meld together in the pot and on your plate. Let’s break down the simple but essential ingredients that transform this Italian classic.

Chicken thighs and/or drumsticks: Bone-in, skin-on poultry delivers maximum flavor and juicy, tender bites throughout the braise.
Salt and black pepper: The foundation for seasoning the chicken and the sauce alike.
Olive oil: Use good olive oil to help brown the chicken and sauté the veggies, adding both flavor and a silky texture.
Onion: Sliced onions release natural sweetness as they cook, forming the aromatic base of the sauce.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a slightly sweet, smoky note to the dish.
Yellow bell pepper: Another layer of color, with a milder, sunny flavor that makes the sauce vibrant.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its irresistible aroma and depth.
Dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and infuses the sauce with acidity and complexity. Substitute with chicken broth if desired.
Crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce—choose a good-quality canned tomato for the best result.
Dried oregano: Delivers that distinctive Mediterranean herb flavor that makes Chicken Cacciatore sing.
Dried thyme: Gives the sauce earthiness and a lovely, subtle perfume.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle background heat without overpowering warmth.
Pitted black or green olives: Their briny flavor balances the sweet tomato sauce beautifully.
Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs for a bright, fresh finish and gorgeous garnish.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore

Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken pieces dry and seasoning them generously on all sides with salt and black pepper. In a sturdy Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and brown the chicken pieces until the skin is golden and crisp, about 4–5 minutes per side. This step adds tons of flavor at the very start, and the fond left behind in the pan is pure gold for your sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the chicken is out, add your sliced onions and both peppers right into the same pan. Sauté them, stirring often, so they release their sweetness and pick up all those delicious browned bits. After about 5–7 minutes, the veggies should be tender and fragrant, forming a perfect savory base.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Deglaze

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute until it smells irresistible but isn’t browned. Pour in the white wine next, scraping the bottom to release any stuck-on bits. Let the wine simmer for a couple of minutes, reducing slightly and infusing the pan with a zippy lift of flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time to stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, thyme, and (if you’re using) some crushed red pepper flakes. The sauce comes together quickly and starts to look and smell like a true Italian masterpiece. Make sure everything is well mixed before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Braise the Chicken

Return the chicken pieces to the pan, skin side up, nestling them into the sauce so every piece is surrounded by flavor. Cover and lower the heat to let the dish simmer gently for 35–40 minutes. The chicken will become incredibly tender, soaking up the savory tomato goodness as it cooks.

Step 6: Add Olives and Finish

In the last 10 minutes of simmering, add the pitted olives. Their briny bite cuts through the richness and complements everything in the pot. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Right before serving, sprinkle with plenty of chopped parsley or basil for freshness and color.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore

Garnishes

The finishing touches can make Chicken Cacciatore shine even more. I love to shower the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a punch of herbal brightness. For a little extra color and Italian flair, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of your favorite olive oil right at the end.

Side Dishes

This saucy chicken begs for something to mop up all those glorious juices. Serve your Chicken Cacciatore with al dente pasta, creamy polenta, or a hunk of crusty bread. Roasted potatoes or even simple steamed rice pair beautifully, too—the goal is to soak up every last drop of that vibrant sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the chicken and sauce over cheesy polenta bowls, or layer everything atop toasted sourdough for a rustic open-faced sandwich. If you have leftovers, shred the chicken and toss it with pasta or stuff it into a warm pita pocket for a hearty Italian-inspired lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Cacciatore is even better the next day—just transfer any leftovers (bone-in pieces and sauce) to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully over time.

Freezing

This dish freezes remarkably well. Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Chicken Cacciatore in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also use the microwave—just cover to prevent splatters and stir halfway through heating for even results.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for Chicken Cacciatore?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken works well and cooks a bit faster, but bone-in pieces create extra depth and richness in the sauce. Simply adjust the cook time so the chicken stays juicy and tender.

What’s the best wine to use?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is ideal for Chicken Cacciatore. If you’d rather skip the alcohol, chicken broth makes an excellent substitute.

Are there vegetarian versions of Chicken Cacciatore?

While traditional Chicken Cacciatore calls for, well, chicken, you can swap it for thick slices of eggplant, mushrooms, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian take. The sauce is so flavorful, it works beautifully with plant-based proteins.

Can I make Chicken Cacciatore in advance?

Yes, making this dish ahead is a great idea—the flavors actually improve as it sits! Prepare it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and simply reheat before serving.

What are some fun ways to use leftovers?

Leftover Chicken Cacciatore is incredibly versatile. Turn it into a pasta sauce, pile it onto sandwiches or pizza, use it in a grain bowl, or even tuck it into a cheesy quesadilla for a Mediterranean twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen, you absolutely have to try Chicken Cacciatore. With its easy prep, bright flavors, and soul-warming sauce, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Pour a glass of wine, invite someone you love to the table, and enjoy every rustic bite!