Chicken Cacciatore

Authentic Chicken Cacciatore Recipe from Italy | Savory Tomato and Mushroom Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that translates to "hunter's chicken." This hearty and flavorful dish is made with chicken, mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a delicious and comforting meal.

History

Chicken Cacciatore has its origins in Italy, where hunters would prepare this dish with freshly caught game meat. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken as the main protein, making it more accessible to the general population. Today, Chicken Cacciatore is a popular dish enjoyed by many around the world.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 3-inch pieces
1.5 tbsp olive oil
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3.33 cups canned crushed tomatoes, with purée
2 tsp italian herb seasoning
2 tbsp lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat oil in a heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Sauté the chicken for 3 – 4 minutes, turning frequently, until browned.
Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and sauté the mushrooms and garlic in the same skillet for 3 – 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms begin to brown.
Stir in the tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
Return the chicken to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 5 – 6 minutes, until the chicken is cooked throughout.
Stir in the lemon juice before serving.

Variations

Add olives, capers, or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer and more tender dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- Browning the chicken before simmering it in the tomato sauce helps to develop a rich and savory flavor.

- Use a heavy non-stick skillet to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more herbs or spices as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Cacciatore over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the chicken and mushrooms before simmering them in the tomato sauce to develop layers of flavor.

- Simmer the dish uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken and intensify in flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes for a more vibrant and fresh taste.

- Substitute chicken broth for the lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Cacciatore can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Cacciatore in a shallow bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation. - Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Cacciatore with a light and fruity red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

8g per serving

Proteins

28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Cacciatore is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten (if served with pasta) and may contain dairy (if served with cheese).

Summary

Chicken Cacciatore is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Cacciatore is a delicious and comforting Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with pasta, bread, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Chicken Cacciatore. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and gold, and the air filled with the smell of wood smoke and spices. I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who hailed from Italy and was known for her delicious home-cooked meals.

As I walked into Maria's cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs enveloped me like a warm embrace. Maria was busy stirring a bubbling pot on the stove, her hands moving with practiced ease as she added a splash of red wine and a handful of olives to the mix. I watched in awe as she worked her magic, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and savory dish that seemed to capture the essence of Italy itself.

"Ah, mia cara amica!" Maria exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight as she caught sight of me. "You have arrived just in time to taste my Chicken Cacciatore. It is a family recipe, passed down through generations, and I am certain you will love it."

I eagerly accepted Maria's invitation to stay for dinner, and as we sat down at her rustic wooden table, she regaled me with stories of her childhood in the Italian countryside, where she had learned the art of cooking from her beloved Nonna. She spoke of long summer days spent harvesting ripe tomatoes, plucking fragrant herbs from the garden, and hunting for wild mushrooms in the forest.

"It was in those simple moments, surrounded by the sights, smells, and tastes of my homeland, that I truly fell in love with cooking," Maria confided, her voice soft with nostalgia. "And it is those memories that I carry with me every time I step into the kitchen."

As we savored the first bite of Maria's Chicken Cacciatore, I understood why this dish held such a special place in her heart. The tender chicken, braised in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and peppers, melted in my mouth, sending waves of warmth and comfort through my body. The flavors were bold and earthy, with a hint of sweetness from the wine and a touch of brininess from the olives.

"This is truly a masterpiece," I exclaimed, my taste buds tingling with delight. "I must learn how to make this dish myself."

Maria smiled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, my dear, I am happy to share the recipe with you. But I must warn you, it requires patience, a keen eye for detail, and a generous sprinkling of love."

Over the following weeks, I diligently practiced making Chicken Cacciatore in my own kitchen, following Maria's instructions to the letter. I seasoned the chicken with care, browned it to golden perfection, and simmered it gently in a velvety tomato sauce until it was tender enough to fall off the bone. I stirred in olives, capers, and fresh herbs, allowing their flavors to meld and mingle, creating a symphony of tastes and textures.

Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a deep connection to Maria and her Italian heritage. I imagined myself back in her kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of family, as I lovingly tended to the bubbling pot on the stove. And with each savory spoonful, I felt as though I was savoring a piece of Italy itself, a taste of a place and a time that was both familiar and yet so far away.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, learning new recipes and techniques from friends, family, and cookbooks. But it was Maria's Chicken Cacciatore that remained my favorite, a dish that never failed to bring a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

And so, whenever I prepare this recipe for my own loved ones, I do so with a sense of pride and gratitude, knowing that it is more than just a meal. It is a tribute to friendship, to tradition, and to the joy of sharing good food with those we hold dear. And as I sit down at the table, surrounded by laughter and conversation, I am reminded once again of the simple pleasures that come from a well-cooked meal and a loving heart.