Delicious Chicken Hunter's Style recipe showcasing rich flavors and simple cooking techniques.

Chicken Hunter’s Style

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Hunter’s Style is a delicious and hearty dish that brings warmth to any table. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich sauce filled with vegetables and spices, this recipe is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s great for those who love bold flavors and a bit of rustic cooking!

How to Make Chicken Hunter’s Style

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs (large, about 1 kg / 2 lb)
  • 4 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (halved, finely sliced)
  • 2 rosemary sprigs (about 15 cm/6" long), or 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves (preferably fresh, else dried)
  • 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
  • 3 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste, optional)
  • 250g / 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
  • 2 red capsicum (sliced 8 mm thick, medium, not giant)
  • 1/3 cup tomato paste
  • 3/4 cup pinot noir (or other dry red wine)
  • 2 cups chicken stock or broth (low sodium)
  • 400g/14 oz canned crushed tomato
  • 16 whole kalamata olives (pitted, drained)
  • 1/4 tsp cooking or kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Mashed potatoes (or polenta, for serving)
  • Finely chopped parsley (for sprinkling, optional)

Directions:

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  4. In the same pot, add the sliced onion, rosemary, bay leaves, garlic, and anchovy fillets (if using). Cook until the onion is soft.
  5. Stir in the mushrooms and capsicum, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  6. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the wine and let it simmer for a few minutes, reducing slightly.
  8. Add the chicken stock, crushed tomatoes, olives, dried oregano, and the browned chicken back into the pot. Bring everything to a boil.
  9. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve Chicken Hunter’s Style

Serve Chicken Hunter’s Style hot, ladled over a generous serving of mashed potatoes or polenta. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley on top adds a nice touch. The robust sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy sides.

How to Store Chicken Hunter’s Style

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Chicken Hunter’s Style

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in salt, pepper, and herbs a few hours before cooking.
  • If you want to make it quicker, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in.
  • Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or zucchini based on your preference.

Variation

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken or substitute some of the chicken with more vegetables like zucchini and carrots. Alternatively, you can make a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and lentils instead of chicken.

FAQs

Can I use different types of wine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any dry red wine you have on hand. It adds depth and richness to the sauce.

Can this dish be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can make Chicken Hunter’s Style a day ahead. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Chicken Hunter’s Style besides mashed potatoes?

You can also serve it with crusty bread, pasta, or even a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.