Homemade Chicken Cacciatore - A Hearty Italian Dinner
45
min
584
Calories
31g
Fats
22g
Carbs
48g
Protein
Savor the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy Chicken Cacciatore recipe. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, it combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and aromatic herbs in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepping the Chicken
Kick off your culinary adventure by seasoning the chicken. In a medium-sized bowl, blend salt, pepper, and all-purpose flour to coat your chicken pieces evenly. This little dusting ensures a fantastic crispy crust post-searing, and it's a step not to skip. Gently shake off any excess flour for the perfect light coating. This isn't just about flavor; it's about achieving that golden, enticing look and a texture that locks in juices.
Pro Tip: Pat the chicken dry before dredging to ensure the flour sticks well.
Step 2: Browning the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over a medium-to-high flame to ready it for the chicken. Once hot, lay the chicken pieces down, turning them occasionally until each piece is evenly browned. This process isn't just for looks; browning introduces a depth of flavor that's foundational to your cacciatore. After browning, transfer your chicken onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. Remember, we're aiming for succulent, not greasy.
Pro Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece browns properly.
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
In the same pan used for browning the chicken, sauté the onion and garlic until they're soft and fragrant but not brown. This is where your kitchen starts to smell amazing. Add the red pepper and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften. The blend of textures and flavors builds the base of our sauce. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes, white wine, and oregano, letting it simmer briefly to cook off the alcohol. This sauce is about to become the chicken's best friend, infusing it with every imaginable flavor from tangy to earthy.
Pro Tip: Letting the sauce simmer allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Now, reintroduce the chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let everything simmer on low for about an hour. This slow cooking process not only ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful but also allows the sauce to thicken and adhere to the chicken, creating a dish that's hearty and warming. It's a step that requires a bit of patience, but the reward is a dish that's brimming with flavors and ready to impress.
Pro Tip: Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking or burning.
