If you’re looking to bring a taste of Italy into your home, Chicken Cacciatore is a classic and comforting dish that will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings. This hearty recipe is filled with tender chicken, flavorful tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and savory olives. It’s the ideal meal for a cozy night in or a family gathering. Let’s dive into creating this delicious Chicken Cacciatore right in your own kitchen.
**Chicken Cacciatore**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry red wine
– 1/2 cup pitted black olives
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to release the fragrant aromas.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Return the browned chicken pieces back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid, lower the heat to medium-low, and let the Chicken Cacciatore simmer for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through.
8. Add the pitted black olives to the skillet and gently stir them into the sauce.
9. Once the chicken is fully cooked, and the sauce has thickened slightly, your Chicken Cacciatore is ready to be served.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cacciatore served over a bed of pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich and savory sauce. This rustic Italian dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests with a taste of traditional comfort food. Buon appetito!
