Delicious Chicken Cacciatore featuring vibrant vegetables and herbs in sauce

Chicken Cacciatore Delight

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Chicken Cacciatore Delight is a hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italian cooking right to your kitchen. It’s a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious blend of chicken, vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce. Plus, it is a great way to enjoy tender chicken that absorbs the flavors of the sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.

how to make Chicken Cacciatore Delight

Ingredients:

  • 1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup peanut oil
  • 2 cups onions, cut into thin rings
  • ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, drained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup sherry

Directions:

  1. Rinse and pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Coat the chicken with flour in a bowl or a resealable plastic zipper bag.
  2. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside in a bowl.
  3. In the same skillet, cook the onions, green bell pepper, and garlic in the oil until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the mushrooms and continue to cook until they have released their liquid and are almost tender, about 10 more minutes.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, oregano, and sherry. Mix well and stir in the chicken pieces along with any juices that have collected.
  6. Simmer until the chicken meat is tender and no longer pink in the thickest part of a thigh, about 30 to 40 minutes.

how to serve Chicken Cacciatore Delight

Serve Chicken Cacciatore Delight hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, over pasta, or with a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for an added touch.

how to store Chicken Cacciatore Delight

To store leftovers, let the Chicken Cacciatore Delight cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Chicken Cacciatore Delight

  • Make sure to season the flour before coating the chicken for extra flavor.
  • Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth to the dish.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.
  • For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

You can make a lighter version by using skinless chicken pieces. If you prefer, replace the peanut oil with olive oil for a more traditional Italian taste.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless pieces cook faster.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can make Chicken Cacciatore Delight a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. It often tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld.

What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore Delight?

It goes well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. A simple salad can also complement this tasty dish!