Chicken Cacciatore

 

Chicken Cacciatore

Cacciatore means "hunter" in Italian, and this rustic chicken dish is made with a tomato-based sauce with herbs, mushrooms, and red wine. It’s typically served with polenta or pasta.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and brown it on both sides for about 5-7 minutes per side.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
   • Add the mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Add the Liquid:

   • Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Simmer the Chicken:

   • Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 30-40 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.