Name: Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 bone‑in, skin‑on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 bell peppers (red and/or yellow), sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 (28‑oz) can crushed tomatoes or whole tomatoes (crushed by hand); 2 tbsp tomato paste; ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as substitute); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil (or Italian seasoning blend); 1 bay leaf; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; Optional: ½ cup olives or capers for briny flavor; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Chicken cacciatore is a rustic, Italian-inspired dish that I turn to when I want something hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting. Braised in a rich tomato sauce with herbs, vegetables, and sometimes a splash of wine, this one-pan meal transforms simple ingredients into a dinner that feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how chicken cacciatore fills my kitchen with incredible aromas as it simmers. The tender chicken soaks up all the bold flavors of the sauce—tomatoes, garlic, onions, peppers, and herbs—creating a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
Olive oil
Onion, sliced
Bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
Garlic, minced
Crushed tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes
Tomato paste
Dry white wine or chicken broth
Italian seasoning or dried oregano and basil
Bay leaf
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Optional: mushrooms, olives, capers

Directions

I season the chicken with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, I heat olive oil and brown the chicken on both sides until golden. I remove it and set it aside.
In the same pan, I sauté the onions and bell peppers until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
I stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.
I add the crushed tomatoes, wine (or broth), Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. I bring it to a simmer.
I return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce.
I cover and simmer on low heat for about 40–45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
I remove the lid for the last 10 minutes to let the sauce thicken, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

I sometimes add sliced mushrooms or green olives for more depth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang. If I want a spicier version, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Boneless chicken works too—I just reduce the cooking time slightly. I’ve also made it in the slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for batch cooking.

FAQs

What does “cacciatore” mean?

“Cacciatore” means “hunter” in Italian. Chicken cacciatore, or pollo alla cacciatora, is traditionally prepared hunter-style, with herbs, tomatoes, wine, and vegetables.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, I often use boneless thighs or breasts for quicker cooking. Just reduce the simmering time to 25–30 minutes.

What should I serve with chicken cacciatore?

I love it over pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Rice or cauliflower rice also work great.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal. I cook it fully, cool it down, and reheat before serving. The flavor gets even better with time.

Do I need to use wine?

No, I can use chicken broth instead. The wine adds depth, but it’s optional and easy to substitute.

Conclusion

Chicken cacciatore is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. I love its rich, savory flavor and how it turns everyday ingredients into something comforting and memorable. Whether I’m feeding my family or hosting a cozy dinner, this dish always brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.