Chicken cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato and wine sauce, complemented by mushrooms and olives. Perfect for family dinners, it's both comforting and elegant.

23 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
8 chicken thighs
1 cup mushrooms
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup white wine
1 can canned tomatoes
1 tbsp vinegar
1/3 cup olives

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that is both hearty and flavorful. Typically, it features tender chicken pieces simmered in a savory mixture of tomatoes, garlic, and wine, with the addition of mushrooms and olives for depth of flavor. It's an ideal recipe for a comforting yet elegant meal, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash, pat dry, and season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic.
- Slice the olives (if not pre-sliced).

2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

3. Brown the Chicken:
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender.

5. Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in 1/3 cup of white wine to deglaze the pan. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly.

6. Add Tomatoes and Vinegar:
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) and 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine.

7. Return Chicken to Skillet:
- Place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Add the sliced olives to the skillet.

8. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

9. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

10. Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, possibly over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.

With its rich melody of flavors, Chicken Cacciatore is a dish that never fails to impress. By following this recipe, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Italian meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. It's a perfect recipe to incorporate into your repertoire, providing a delightful option for any occasion.

Chicken cacciatore FAQ:

What is the best way to know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. The meat should also be tender and no longer pink in the center.

How can I store leftover Chicken Cacciatore?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with breast meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. However, breasts may dry out faster, so reduce the cooking time slightly and monitor them closely to ensure they remain moist.

What type of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for Chicken Cacciatore. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the dish's flavor profile.

What can I use instead of olives if I don't like them?

If you dislike olives, consider substituting them with capers or simply omitting them. Alternatively, you could add other ingredients like artichoke hearts or even extra mushrooms for added flavor.

Tips:

- For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they remain moist and flavorful during cooking.

- Make sure to sear the chicken thighs until they are golden brown before simmering. This locks in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.

- Deglaze the pan with the white wine to incorporate all the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let the mixture simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.

- Serve the Chicken Cacciatore with a side of pasta or a crusty piece of bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 530kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.58g
Sugar 6g
Fat 44g

Chicken cacciatore