Chicken Cacciatore recipe: A Timeless Italian Classic. Chicken Cacciatore, or “Pollo alla Cacciatora” in Italian, is a beloved rustic dish that has been passed down through generations, epitomizing the soul of Italian home cooking. The word “cacciatore” translates to “hunter” in Italian, and this dish is often referred to as “hunter-style” chicken. Traditionally, hunters would prepare meals with whatever ingredients they had on hand — often chicken, wild game, and an array of vegetables like tomatoes, onions, herbs, and sometimes even wine. The result was a hearty, flavorful stew designed to nourish and sustain, bringing warmth to the table after long days spent outdoors.
Today, Chicken Cacciatore remains a favorite in Italian households and around the world, thanks to its comforting flavors, adaptability, and simplicity. It brings together basic ingredients in a way that feels both familiar and rich, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned cooks. The dish is emblematic of the Italian culinary philosophy — using fresh, accessible ingredients to create meals that are greater than the sum of their parts.
In this article, we will delve into the origins, ingredients, and variations of Chicken Cacciatore, as well as provide a detailed recipe for four people to prepare and enjoy this delightful meal.
A Brief History of Chicken Cacciatore
The roots of Chicken Cacciatore stretch back to Italy’s countryside, where meals were often prepared based on necessity rather than extravagance. The concept of alla cacciatora — literally “hunter-style” — is thought to have originated from regions like Tuscany and Umbria, where game like rabbit, pheasant, and wild boar were more common than chicken. In its original form, hunters would catch their meal and combine it with ingredients like onions, mushrooms, herbs, and a splash of local wine to create a rustic stew that could be cooked slowly over a fire.
While the dish was initially made with game meat, chicken became a popular substitution over time, as it was more widely available and easier to prepare. As with many Italian dishes, Chicken Cacciatore evolved differently depending on the region. In northern Italy, you’ll find versions of the dish that include white wine, while southern Italian recipes tend to use red wine and tomatoes more liberally.
In the post-World War II era, Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them to the United States, and Chicken Cacciatore became a staple in Italian-American kitchens. Its simplicity and accessibility made it a household favorite, perfect for family dinners, Sunday feasts, and even special occasions.
Ingredients that Define Chicken Cacciatore
The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore lies in its adaptability. The core components — chicken, vegetables, herbs, and tomatoes — are often pantry staples, and the dish can be adjusted to suit personal tastes or what’s available in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks are often used because they remain tender and juicy during long simmering. However, you can use any cut of chicken, including boneless, if you prefer a quicker cooking time. The bone-in variety adds flavor to the stew, enriching the sauce as it cooks.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are an essential element of the dish, providing a rich, tangy base that complements the chicken’s savory flavor. You can use canned crushed tomatoes, whole tomatoes, or even fresh tomatoes during peak season. Some variations use tomato paste or passata to thicken the sauce.
Onions and Peppers: Onions form the aromatic base of the stew, adding sweetness and depth. Bell peppers, especially red and green, bring color and texture to the dish, creating a balance of sweetness and slight bitterness.
Garlic: No Italian dish is complete without garlic, and Chicken Cacciatore is no exception. The garlic adds a pungent, aromatic note that deepens the flavor profile of the dish.
Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano, thyme, and basil are common in traditional recipes, bringing an earthy, herbal element that ties the ingredients together. A bay leaf or two can also add subtle depth to the sauce. Some cooks add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Wine: Wine is another key ingredient in many versions of Chicken Cacciatore. A splash of red or white wine (depending on the region or personal preference) adds acidity and complexity, helping to deglaze the pan after browning the chicken and vegetables. If you prefer to cook without alcohol, chicken broth can be substituted.
Olives and Capers (Optional): In some versions of Chicken Cacciatore, olives and capers are added towards the end of cooking to bring a briny, salty kick to the dish. They add an extra layer of complexity and are particularly common in southern Italian recipes.
Variations of Chicken Cacciatore
One of the reasons Chicken Cacciatore has stood the test of time is its incredible versatility. There are countless ways to tweak the recipe based on regional differences or personal preferences. Here are a few popular variations:
Tuscan Chicken Cacciatore: In Tuscany, Chicken Cacciatore is often made with white wine and less emphasis on tomatoes, letting the wine and fresh herbs shine. The resulting dish is lighter and more focused on the flavors of the chicken and wine.
Southern Italian Style: Southern versions of Chicken Cacciatore lean heavily on tomatoes, using red wine and even chili flakes to create a bolder, spicier sauce. Olives, capers, and anchovies might make an appearance, adding a distinct Mediterranean flair.
Mushroom Cacciatore: While bell peppers are commonly used, some variations substitute or include mushrooms for an earthy, umami-packed flavor. This is particularly common in northern Italy, where wild mushrooms might be included during the fall.
Polenta or Pasta: Chicken Cacciatore is often served with a starch to soak up the rich sauce. In northern Italy, creamy polenta is the traditional pairing, while in other regions, it’s served with rustic bread or pasta. In Italian-American homes, it’s common to serve Chicken Cacciatore over spaghetti or linguine, making it a heartier, more filling meal.
Why Chicken Cacciatore Is Perfect for Modern Kitchens
Despite its roots in rustic, slow-cooked cuisine, Chicken Cacciatore fits seamlessly into modern kitchens. It’s a forgiving recipe that doesn’t require precise measurements or timing, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cooking sessions. The ingredients are readily available, and you can adapt the recipe based on what’s in your pantry. Moreover, Chicken Cacciatore can be made in large batches and tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish for meal prep or entertaining.
Additionally, the dish’s one-pot nature means minimal cleanup, and it provides a complete, satisfying meal when paired with a simple starch or vegetable side. As a versatile and nutritious dish, Chicken Cacciatore brings together protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients in a way that feels luxurious but remains rooted in everyday cooking.
Chicken Cacciatore is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the enduring power of simple, humble ingredients to create something deeply flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a leisurely Sunday dinner, this dish brings warmth, history, and a touch of Italian charm to your table. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic vegetables, Chicken Cacciatore will remain a timeless favorite, loved for both its heartiness and simplicity.
Chicken Cacciatore recipe for 4 persons
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking : 50 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Ingredients: Chicken Cacciatore recipe
4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for more flavor)
4 chicken drumsticks
Salt and pepper (to taste)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup pitted black or green olives (optional)
2 tablespoons capers (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions: Chicken Cacciatore recipe
1. Prepare the chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken, skin side down, and brown on all sides. This will take about 5 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Cook the vegetables:
In the same pan, add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers.
Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Deglaze with wine (optional):
Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the browned bits.
Let the wine reduce by half, which will take 2-3 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes and seasoning:
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Stir well to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pan:
Place the browned chicken back into the pan, skin side up. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Optional: Add olives and capers in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish and serve:
Once the chicken is done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Chicken Cacciatore recipe:
1. What does “Cacciatore” mean?
Cacciatore means “hunter” in Italian, and Chicken Cacciatore refers to a “hunter-style” dish traditionally made with chicken, vegetables, and herbs. The term reflects the rustic, simple cooking methods of hunters who would prepare meals with ingredients they gathered.
2. What type of chicken should I use for this Chicken Cacciatore recipe ?
The dish is typically made with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks, which add flavor and remain tender when slow-cooked. However, you can also use boneless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer a leaner or quicker-cooking option.
3. Can I use white wine instead of red wine in Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes! Both white and red wine work well, though they give different flavor profiles. White wine offers a lighter, tangier flavor, while red wine gives a deeper, more robust taste. You can also skip the wine entirely and use chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
4. How long does it take to cook this recipe of Chicken Cacciatore?
The total cooking time is usually around 65-70 minutes, including time to brown the chicken and let the sauce simmer. Browning the chicken takes about 10 minutes, and the dish simmers for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. What is traditionally served with Chicken Cacciatore?
Chicken Cacciatore is often served with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. In some regions, it is paired with mashed potatoes or even rice, depending on personal preference.
6. Can I make Chicken Cacciatore in advance?
Yes! Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
7. Can I make this recipe of Chicken Cacciatore in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
8. What vegetables can I add to Chicken Cacciatore recipe ?
Traditional vegetables include onions, bell peppers, and garlic, but you can also add mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or even celery for more texture and flavor. Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal taste.
9. Is this Chicken Cacciatore recipe healthy?
Yes, Chicken Cacciatore is generally considered a healthy dish. It is high in protein, and the sauce is made from vegetables and tomatoes, making it a nutrient-rich meal. Opting for skinless chicken and reducing the amount of oil used can make it even lighter.
10. Can I make this Chicken Cacciatore recipe with other meats?
Yes! While chicken is the most common, rabbit, pork, or even beef can be used to make Cacciatore. The dish originally evolved from hunters using whatever game meat they had available, so it is versatile enough to accommodate different proteins.
Chicken Cacciatore recipe
Ingredients: Chicken Cacciatore recipe
Cooking Instructions: Chicken Cacciatore recipe
1. Prepare the chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken, skin side down, and brown on all sides. This will take about 5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Cook the vegetables:
- In the same pan, add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Deglaze with wine (optional):
- Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the browned bits.
- Let the wine reduce by half, which will take 2-3 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes and seasoning:
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pan:
- Place the browned chicken back into the pan, skin side up. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Optional: Add olives and capers in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish and serve:
- Once the chicken is done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
