Master the Art of Making Authentic Chicken Cacciatore: A Complete Guide
What is Chicken Cacciatore?
Chicken Cacciatore is a traditional Italian dish, known for its rich and robust flavors. The name cacciatore translates to hunter in Italian, and this dish is said to be prepared in the style of a hunter's stew, using ingredients that are often found in the countryside. This classic dish typically consists of chicken pieces braised with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and a variety of herbs and spices.
Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Cacciatore
Here's what you'll need to make a delicious Chicken Cacciatore:
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Follow these steps to create an authentic Chicken Cacciatore:
- Season the chicken leg quarters with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer until it is reduced by half, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Now, you're ready to enjoy a delicious and authentic Chicken Cacciatore! Serve it with a side of pasta or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Cacciatore
Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Cacciatore turns out perfectly:
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the most flavor and juiciness.
- Don't skip the step of dredging the chicken in flour before browning – it helps create a beautiful crust and thickens the sauce.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a parmesan rind to the sauce.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make extra!
