Chicken Cacciatore Italian-American Style Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chicken Cacciatore Italian-American Style Ingredients

Chicken Cacciatore Italian-American Style Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs and drumsticks dry with paper towels, then season all sides with 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Lightly dredge the chicken pieces in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
  3. Heat 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the chicken, skin side down, and brown for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Work in batches if necessary to avoid crowding. Transfer browned chicken to a plate.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the same pan and sauté for 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  7. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any remaining brown bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  9. Add the hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes (with juices), 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olives, 2 tablespoons rinsed capers, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary. Stir to combine.
  10. Return the browned chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan, nestling the pieces into the sauce so they are mostly submerged.
  11. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 35-40 minutes, occasionally turning the chicken, until the meat is very tender and nearly falling off the bone.
  12. Uncover the pan and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce, if desired. Remove and discard the rosemary sprigs.
  13. Stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter until melted for a glossy finish.
  14. Sprinkle the chopped parsley, torn basil leaves, and lemon zest over the chicken cacciatore just before serving.

Estimated Calories: 300, Servings: 4

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Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, the best way to keep your Chicken Cacciatore fresh is to transfer it into an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. This easy step helps lock in all those delicious flavors and prevents any unwanted fridge odors from seeping in. If you are looking for a quick and healthy meal prep option, storing individual portions can make for a fast grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.Shelf life is another important factor to consider with this recipe. Chicken Cacciatore will stay good in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great make-ahead dish for busy schedules. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a good option. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and it will last for up to three months. This makes it easy to have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready whenever you need it.Reheating is a breeze and helps retain the best flavor and texture. For fast results, you can use the microwave, but for the most delicious outcome, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. This method allows the sauce to thicken up again and the chicken to stay juicy. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and you will have a healthy, easy dinner that tastes just as great as when it was first made.

About Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

The best Italian-American Chicken Cacciatore recipe is a delicious and authentic dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This homemade recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple and easy way to enjoy a classic meal. With just a few basic ingredients, you can quickly create a tasty and satisfying dinner that your whole family will love. If you’re wondering how to make the best Chicken Cacciatore, this recipe is your answer.
One of the secrets to making the perfect Italian-American chicken dish is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with tender chicken. For a quick and easy meal, follow our tips for browning the chicken and simmering the sauce to perfection. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple enough for busy weeknights.
If you’re searching for the best homemade Chicken Cacciatore, look no further. Our authentic recipe offers step-by-step instructions on how to make this classic dish, ensuring tasty results every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy this easy and quick Italian-American favorite with your favorite side dishes for a truly memorable meal.

Healthy Chicken Cacciatore Tips

Looking to boost the health factor in your favorite Italian-American Chicken Cacciatore recipe? Let’s talk about some easy and quick swaps that make this classic dish not just delicious, but also a health superstar! First, ditch the skin-on chicken and go for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs—this simple move slashes saturated fat without sacrificing that authentic, homemade flavor. Load up on extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini to pack in more vitamins and fiber, making your tasty Chicken Cacciatore recipe even more nutritious. Using olive oil in moderation instead of butter keeps things heart-healthy, and opting for low-sodium canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes helps you control the salt content. Trust me, these tips are the best way to keep your recipe healthy while still nailing that perfect, rich taste everyone loves.
Want to know how to make your Italian-American Chicken Cacciatore recipe the best for your health? Skip the heavy pasta and serve it over whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for a fiber boost, or even try cauliflower rice for a low-carb, quick, and easy option. When it comes to ingredients, always choose fresh herbs and spices over pre-made seasoning mixes to avoid hidden sodium and additives—this keeps your homemade dish as authentic and healthy as possible. Don’t forget, portion control is key: enjoy your tasty Chicken Cacciatore with a big side of greens for a balanced, health-focused meal. With these simple tips, you’ll have the perfect, healthy, and delicious Italian-American recipe that’s sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more!

Chicken Cacciatore Quick Mistake Fixes

One common issue that can pop up with this dish is ending up with chicken that's a bit too dry. This can happen if the chicken is cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. The best way to avoid this is to keep an eye on the cooking time and use a quick check for doneness. If you do find yourself with dry chicken, a good trick is to add a splash of broth or a bit more sauce right at the end. This helps bring back some moisture and keeps the meal delicious and healthy, even if things did not go exactly as planned.
Another thing that can go wrong is the sauce turning out bland. With a dish that relies on a rich, flavorful sauce, it's important to taste as you go. If you notice the flavors are not popping, a quick fix is to add a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Sometimes a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon can make a great difference, bringing out the best in the other ingredients. This is an easy and fast way to elevate the taste and make sure your meal is as good as any restaurant recipe.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes is a skill that comes in handy, especially when you want your dish to be the best it can be. If you find the sauce is too acidic, a small amount of sugar or a drizzle of honey can mellow things out. On the other hand, if it feels too heavy, a handful of fresh herbs or a quick squeeze of lemon juice can brighten everything up. These little adjustments are easy to make and can turn a good meal into a truly great one, ensuring your dish is both healthy and delicious every time.

Chicken Cacciatore Story

When I first encountered this dish, I honestly did not think much of it. It seemed like just another meal that people made because it was easy and fast, not because it was anything special. I remember sitting at the table, picking at my plate, and wondering why anyone would choose this over something more exciting. The recipe did not catch my attention, and I was convinced there were better options out there. At that point, I would have never guessed it would become one of my favorites.
Over time, though, my perspective started to shift. I began to notice how often friends and family would rave about how good it was, and I started to pay more attention. I tried a few different versions, and each one seemed to have its own twist. Some were more rustic, others a bit more refined, but all of them had something in common: they were surprisingly delicious. I realized that what I had dismissed as ordinary was actually a great example of comfort food done right. It was healthy, too, which made me appreciate it even more.
Now, I genuinely look forward to making it myself. I have found the best recipe that balances flavor and simplicity, making it perfect for busy weeknights when I want something both quick and satisfying. What once felt uninspired has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love how easy it is to customize. It is funny how a dish I once overlooked has become something I truly enjoy, and I am always excited to share it with others.