02 May 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
8 chicken thighs
salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2/3 cup chicken gravy
1/2 cup white wine
1 can canned tomatoes
1/2 cup olives
2 tbsp dried oregano
Chicken Cacciatore, also known as Hunter's Chicken, is a classic Italian comfort dish that combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic vegetables and rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal to impress your guests.
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels.
- Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Brown the Chicken:
- Add the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the skin is golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 5 minutes.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping off any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the wine has reduced by half.
6. Add Liquids and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the chicken gravy and canned tomatoes (with their juice).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Incorporate Seasonings and Olives:
- Add the dried oregano and olives.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
8. Simmer with Chicken:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
9. Finish and Serve:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, preferably over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in salt, pepper, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for added texture and flavor.
- For a richer sauce, simmer the dish on low heat for a longer period, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it reduce uncovered, or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.
- Use good quality white wine and canned tomatoes to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Serve with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
By following this recipe, you'll create a delicious Chicken Cacciatore that’s juicy and full of flavor. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. Enjoy your homemade Italian masterpiece!