Italian Chicken Cacciatore
Try this Italian Chicken Cacciatore recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Italian Chicken Cacciatore recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- salt and pepper to taste.
- 1 cup thinly sliced onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil divided use
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (can substitute bon
- 1 and 1/2 cups thinly sliced bell peppers (i used bo
- 1/2 cup black olives pitted and halved
- 1 14.5 ounce can of hunt's diced tomatoes basil, garlic & oregano flavor (undrained)
- optional garnish: fresh basil leaves
- Carbohydrate 3.90431 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.8511925 g
- Fiber 1.09172502112389 g
- Protein 0.71129125 g
- Saturated Fat 0.252994875 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (53g)
- Sodium 186.787125 mg
- Sugar 2.81258497887611 g
- Trans Fat 0.0996747499999996 g
- Calories 32 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- In a large deep pan heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium high heat.
- Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken, skin side down in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes or until deep golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook on the other side until browned, 5-6 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place on a plate.
- Add the remaining teaspoon of olive oil to the pan along with the onions, peppers and mushrooms.
- Cook for 7-9 minutes or until vegetables have softened and are starting to brown.
- Season the vegetables with salt and pepper.
- Add the can of tomatoes and olives to the pan, stir to combine.
- Place the chicken back in the pan on top of the tomato-vegetable mixture.
- Spoon some of the tomato mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the pan and put it in the oven.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until chicken is done.
- Remove the pan from the oven and serve, garnished with basil leaves if desired.
My Simple Italian Chicken Cacciatore: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like an impossible task. But let me tell you, this Italian Chicken Cacciatore recipe is my go-to when I need a satisfying dinner that's quick, easy, and tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant. Forget those complicated recipes with a million ingredients and steps. This one is simple, straightforward, and the results are absolutely divine. Seriously, it's so easy even my kids could help (though I usually prefer to keep them away from the hot stove!).
The best part? It's incredibly versatile. I often adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I swap out the mushrooms for zucchini or eggplant. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to make it your own. The basic ingredients – chicken, tomatoes, onions, peppers – form a fantastic base that’s always a hit. One thing I never skimp on is the quality of the tomatoes. I've found that using good canned tomatoes makes a huge difference in the overall flavor of the dish. A simple can of diced tomatoes elevates the entire dish; you won't believe how flavorful the final result is!
This Chicken Cacciatore isn't just a weeknight dinner staple; it’s also a fantastic meal-prep option. I often double the recipe and store the leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually improve as it sits, which is a definite bonus! It reheats beautifully, whether in the microwave or on the stovetop. This means less time spent cooking during the week and more time spent enjoying the company of my family.
The aroma that fills the kitchen while this is baking is simply irresistible. It's a comforting smell that evokes images of cozy family dinners and warm evenings spent chatting around the table. The taste? Oh, the taste! Tender, juicy chicken, simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce with a hint of herbs and spices. It's hearty, satisfying, and a perfect example of how a simple meal can be truly extraordinary. My family eagerly awaits this dish every time it's on the menu. I often serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce, and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is also quite budget-friendly. Chicken thighs are a more affordable cut of meat than chicken breasts, and the vegetables are generally inexpensive. It's a perfect example of how you can make a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. I always feel a sense of pride and satisfaction when I serve this dish. It's a reminder that even the busiest of lives can still include homemade, wholesome, and flavorful meals. So, next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner that will impress your family and friends, give this Italian Chicken Cacciatore a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, carrots, or bell peppers in a rainbow of colors!
- Serve it over pasta: Serve this delicious cacciatore over your favorite pasta for a heartier meal.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts: While thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. You may need to adjust the cooking time.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
This Italian Chicken Cacciatore recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the joy of simple cooking and the satisfaction of sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with loved ones. Try it today, and I'm confident that it will quickly become a family favorite.
