Italian Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore, or “hunter’s chicken,” is a rustic Italian dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors from sweet vermouth, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
With a simple sauté and a leisurely simmer, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich and Comforting Flavors: The combination of sweet vermouth, tomato paste, and Parmesan creates a deeply savory and slightly sweet sauce that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Tender and Juicy Chicken: The long simmering process ensures the chicken absorbs all the aromatic flavors while staying moist and tender.
Burst of Fresh Vegetables: The vibrant red bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes add a fresh, colorful, and wholesome touch.
Versatile Pairings: Whether served over pasta, rice, or enjoyed solo, this dish can adapt to any meal preference.
Ease of Preparation: Simple steps and accessible ingredients make it easy for anyone to prepare a restaurant-quality Italian classic at home.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, cut into strips for quick cooking.
Sweet Vermouth: Adds a unique depth and subtle sweetness to the sauce.
Tomato Paste: Creates a rich and hearty base for the dish.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the savory flavor and keeps the dish moist.
Fresh Vegetables: Mushrooms, red bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes bring color, texture, and freshness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a creamy, umami-rich finish.
Dried Basil and Garlic Powder: Classic Italian seasonings that tie the dish together.
Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups sweet vermouth
2 cups chicken broth
2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil (or to taste)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté Chicken:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken strips and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Add Liquids:
Pour in the sweet vermouth and chicken broth. Stir in the tomato paste and dried basil. Mix well to combine.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Vegetables:
After 40 minutes, add the sliced mushrooms, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the pot. Stir to incorporate.
Continue Cooking:
Allow the dish to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Finish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Serve hot over pasta, rice, or enjoy on its own.
Notes:
Chicken Variations: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or onions based on your preference.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking for a fresher taste.
Vermouth Substitution: If you don’t have sweet vermouth, you can substitute with red wine or even a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Make Ahead: Chicken Cacciatore can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.
Freezing: Leftovers freeze well. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: ~350 | Protein: ~30g | Fat: ~15g | Saturated Fat: ~4g | Carbohydrates: ~20g | Dietary Fiber: ~3g | Sugars: ~4g | Cholesterol: ~80mg | Sodium: ~600mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use turkey, rabbit, or even beef.
Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is it necessary to use sweet vermouth?
While sweet vermouth adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine or chicken broth if needed.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the chicken first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
A side salad or roasted vegetables also make great accompaniments.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Chicken Cacciatore freezes well.
Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long does it take to cook?
The total cooking time is about 1 hour, with 40 minutes for the initial simmer and an additional 20 minutes after adding the vegetables.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to enhance the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that the chicken broth and any other added ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.