Chicken Cacciatore translates to “Hunter’s Chicken” in English.

A warm, simple Italian chicken stew that tastes like home.

Chicken Cacciatore translates to "Hunter’s Chicken" in English. It is a rustic dish of chicken cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. If you like quick chicken ideas for another easy meal, try this 15-minute garlic butter chicken bites recipe to pair or swap for a fast dinner.

Why make this recipe

• It uses simple ingredients you likely have.
• It fills a family and makes good leftovers.
• It is full of flavor but easy to cook.
• You can serve it with rice, pasta, or bread.

How to make Chicken Cacciatore

• Brown the chicken first to get good color and flavor.
• Saute the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft.
• Add tomatoes, broth, and seasoning, then return the chicken.
• Cover and simmer on low until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
• Finish with fresh basil for a fresh taste.

Ingredients :

• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions :

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until soft.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve hot over rice or pasta.

How to serve Chicken Cacciatore

• Serve over cooked rice or your favorite pasta.
• Spoon the sauce over the chicken and add basil on top.
• Offer crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.

How to store Chicken Cacciatore

• Fridge: Cool to room temp, store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to keep the chicken moist.

Tips to make Chicken Cacciatore

• Brown the chicken well for more flavor.
• Use bone-in pieces for juicier results.
• Simmer on low heat to keep the meat tender.
• Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
• Add a splash of wine with the broth for deeper flavor.

Variation (if any)

• Add sliced mushrooms for a classic touch.
• Use green or black olives for a salty note.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use boneless chicken if you want faster cooking time.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?
A: Yes. Use boneless breasts and check cooking time; they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It stores well and tastes good reheated. Make a bigger batch for lunches or dinners later in the week.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the chicken first, then put all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Q: Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
A: No. Canned diced tomatoes are fine as is. Fresh tomatoes can work but need longer cooking.

Q: Can I skip the basil?
A: Yes, but fresh basil adds brightness. You can use parsley if you prefer.

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