A classic Italian comfort dish, Chicken Cacciatore brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce with herbs, peppers, and olives. It’s a hearty, rustic meal that feels both homey and full of bold Mediterranean flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple yet packed with deep, satisfying flavors. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks slowly in the sauce, absorbing all the herbs and spices. It’s perfect for family dinners, easy to prepare in one pan, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you can easily find.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
120 ml (1/2 cup) chicken broth
80 ml (1/3 cup) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
80 g (1/2 cup) black olives, pitted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Mix well.
Add oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 35–45 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add the olives in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
You can switch chicken thighs for boneless chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option. Mushrooms are a great addition for extra depth of flavor. For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream at the end. If you like a tangy twist, include a few capers along with the olives.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken works well, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop further.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, which you can omit for a milder version.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, you can add 1/2 cup of red or white wine after sautéing the vegetables for extra depth.
What type of olives should I use?
Black olives are traditional, but green olives can also be used for a sharper flavor.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the chicken first, then cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a small amount of tomato paste.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, use about 4–5 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes very well and maintains its flavor and texture after reheating.
Conclusion
Italian Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless dish that delivers comforting, bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich sauce and tender chicken.
