Chicken cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore is a comforting Italian dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with olives and aromatic vegetables. It's perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with its robust flavors.

22 Nov 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.

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!

Chicken cacciatore FAQ:

What is the cooking time for Chicken Cacciatore?

After browning the chicken, you should simmer it in the sauce for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced. The meat should also be tender and easily pull away from the bone.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time down to about 20-30 minutes in the simmering step to avoid drying them out.

How should I store leftover Chicken Cacciatore?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before freezing.

What can I use as a substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken gravy or broth, or a mixture of vinegar and water (1 tablespoon of vinegar mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) for acidity.

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.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 570kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 6g
Fat 44g

Chicken cacciatore