Weeknight Chicken Cacciatore

Weeknight Chicken Cacciatore: An Italian Comfort Classic

Fancy some Italian comfort food that's ready in under an hour? This is it! This easy take on Chicken Cacciatore Recipe , also known as "Hunter's Chicken," is proper lush.

Think tender chicken swimming in a rich tomato sauce. We're talking mushrooms, peppers, onions, and all the good stuff. Trust me, it's like a massive hug in a bowl.

Quick Hook: "Mamma Mia! Look At This Easy Italian Chicken!"

Ever wondered how to make amazing italian chicken dishes without spending hours in the kitchen? I used to think Italian Chicken Recipes were only for fancy restaurants.

Then I discovered this easy Italian chicken recipe. Seriously, it's now a weeknight chicken recipes staple in my house. The flavor is unreal.

Brief Overview: Italian Roots, Modern Ease

Chicken Cacciatore has proper rustic Italian origins. It's traditionally made with whatever the hunter could find, basically. This version simplifies things without losing any of that classic flavor.

It's super easy. It takes about 50 minutes total, and feeds about 4 people. Perfect for a family dinner.

Main Benefits: Comfort Food That's Actually Good For You

It's got a decent amount of protein. This means its good for you, but also so satisfying. It's perfect for a chilly evening when you need some serious Italian comfort food .

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to customize. You can throw in any veggies you like.

Also it is good enough to be a Italian Chicken Dinner .

Weeknight Chicken Cacciatore Recipe Card

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:35 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
• 1 tbsp (8g) all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening sauce)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (227g) sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 (28 oz/794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) tomato paste
• 1 tsp (5ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) dried basil
• 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, if using.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken in batches, then set aside.
• Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes and red wine (or chicken broth). Bring to a simmer.
• Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:350

Fat:15g

Fiber:4g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Italian

Get Ready to Make Some Magic

Here's what you'll need to create this One-Pan Chicken Dinner at home

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
• 1 tbsp (8g) all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening sauce)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (227g) sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 (28 oz/794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) tomato paste
• 1 tsp (5ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) dried basil
• 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Alright, let's dive into the heart of this weeknight Chicken Cacciatore . It's all about simple ingredients and easy prep. We're making Italian comfort food accessible, so don't worry if you're not a pro! Honestly, this easy Italian chicken is so straightforward, anyone can nail it.

Ingredients & Equipment

Okay, here's the breakdown of what you'll need. I've included both US and metric because, well, inclusivity! My nonna always said, "Good ingredients, good food," and she wasn't wrong.

Main Ingredients: The Italian Chicken Magic

Here's what makes these Italian chicken dishes sing:

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Quality matters! Look for chicken with a healthy pink color and no off smell.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Extra virgin is always best for that authentic Italian flavour.
• Salt: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) . Season generously!
• Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) . Freshly ground is a game changer.
• Flour: 1 tbsp (8g) all-purpose flour. This is optional, just to thicken the sauce.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup).
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. More if you're a garlic lover like me!
• Mushrooms: 8 oz (227g) sliced. Cremini or white button work perfectly.
• Red Bell Pepper: 1 , seeded and chopped. Adds sweetness and color.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz/794g) can . San Marzano tomatoes are the creme de la creme , but any good quality crushed tomatoes will do.
• Dry Red Wine: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Optional, but adds depth. Chicken broth works too. I normally use the leftover wine I'm drinking.
• Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp (15ml) . For a richer, deeper tomato flavour.
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp (5ml) . Essential Mediterranean chicken recipes herb!
• Dried Basil: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) . Because basil makes everything better.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) . Optional, for a bit of heat.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) chopped. For garnish.

Seasoning Notes

The essential spice combinations are oregano and basil. Honestly, they bring that Italian chicken dinner flavor. Red pepper flakes are your flavor enhancer, if you like a little kick.

As for aromatics, garlic is key!

Need a quick substitution? Dried Italian seasoning blend can replace oregano and basil.

Equipment Needed

Don’t go rhelping a professional kitchen, this is weeknight chicken recipes .

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. This is where the magic happens.
• Cutting board. Obviously.
• Chef's knife. A good knife makes all the difference.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Pretty self-explanatory.

Honestly, if you don't have a fancy skillet, a large frying pan works just fine. No need to stress! You know? Just get cooking! The Chicken Cacciatore recipe is super flexible.

Right, let's talk cooking! Specifically, how to make italian chicken dishes that taste like they've been simmering all day, even when you're short on time.

Honestly, some of my best meals have come about when I'm rhelping the fridge at 6PM , wondering what weeknight chicken recipes I can throw together without ordering a takeaway! So, buckle up, because we're about to make some magic.

Cooking Method: Weeknight Chicken Cacciatore Magic

This ain't your Nonna's Chicken Cacciatore Recipe , but it's pretty darn close in flavour and a lot easier to pull off after a long day.

It's all about getting those Easy Italian Chicken flavours in a flash. Think of it as italian comfort food , but with a little one-pan chicken dinner twist.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

• Essential mise en place : Chop 1 medium yellow onion, mince 2 cloves garlic, slice 8 oz mushrooms and chop 1 red bell pepper. Cut 1.5 lbs chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. It’s all about saving time later.
• Time-saving organization tips : Get all your spices measured out. Honestly, pre-measuring saved my sanity during those crazy weeknights.
• Safety reminders : Remember to wash your hands and cutting boards after handling raw chicken! You know, just the basics.

Step-by-Step: Simmering to Success

1. Season your chicken with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the chicken in batches, then set aside.
4. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5- 7 minutes .
5. Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Cook for 1 minute .
6. Add 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup red wine. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20- 25 minutes . Chicken needs to reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
8. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Cacciatore

• Expert Technique : Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine after browning the chicken. It’ll add layers of flavour.
• Common mistake : Overcrowding the pan when searing. Sear in batches. Trust me.
• Make-ahead : The sauce can be made a day in advance. Just add the chicken when you're ready to cook. This recipe is also one of my favorite italian recipes chicken ! Think of it as a delightful italian chicken dinner and a mediterranean chicken recipes . If you are fan of Chicken Piccata Recipe this dish might please you!

Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty, shall we? So, you've got this amazing Weeknight Chicken Cacciatore , right? It's proper Italian comfort food .

But before you start whipping it up, let's chat about some essential stuff. Little things that can really elevate your cooking game! Think of it as me giving you the inside scoop, yeah?

Recipe Notes: Chef's Secrets

Serving Suggestions: Making It Look Swanky

Right, so you've slaved away making this awesome Italian chicken dinner . Let's make it look amazing. A dollop of creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of perfectly cooked polenta will do the trick.

Presentation is key. Sprinkle with some extra parsley. Boom! Restaurant vibes. Seriously, some crusty bread alongside is a must – soaking up all that lovely sauce is half the fun.

I love to put it in a deep bowl! It's comforting and feels rustic.

Storage Tips: No Waste Allowed

Honestly, leftovers never tasted so good. This Easy Italian Chicken is even better the next day!

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days . Easy peasy.
• Freezing: If you're feeling organised, you can freeze it too! Pop it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months . Make sure it's cooled down properly before freezing, yeah?
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat. Or zap it in the microwave if you're in a rush. Add a splash of chicken broth if it's looking a bit dry.

Variations: Put Your Own Spin On It

Wanna mix things up a bit? No worries! Here are some cheeky variations to try:

• Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free version? Just skip the flour when coating the chicken. Serve with gluten-free pasta or polenta. Easy peasy!
• Seasonal Swaps: During the summer, throw in some fresh basil and ripe tomatoes for extra flavour. In winter, try adding some root vegetables like carrots or parsnips. Seasonal ingredients make it super special.

Nutrition Basics: Feel-Good Food

Let's be real, we all want to know what we're putting into our bodies. The dish is full of goodness.

Think protein from the chicken, vitamins from the veg, and happiness from all the flavour! Plus it's also one of the best Italian Chicken Recipes .

• It is important to remember that this One-Pan Chicken Dinner is a balanced meal that's good for your soul.
• This is one of the best Mediterranean Chicken Recipes , and eating healthy means you're giving yourself a big hug from the inside.

I am pretty sure that with a little tweaking, you could turn this into a Chicken Piccata Recipe , or even Chicken Cacciatore Recipe .

Honestly, don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Cooking should be fun, not a chore. Now go forth and conquer those Italian Chicken Dishes ! You've got this, my friend! These Weeknight Chicken Recipes are here to stay, and you are their king or queen!