Italian Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken cacciatore is a rustic Italian hunter-style stew that celebrates the marriage of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato base. This slow-simmered dish is perfect for a cozy dinner paired with crusty bread or pasta.

Photo is illustrative and may not depict the finished recipe. Follow the written ingredients and method.

By the Home Cooking Recipes Editorial Team · How we develop and review recipes

Illustrative food photo for Italian Chicken Cacciatore
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 1 hours 10 minutes
  • Total time: 1 hours 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup flour for dusting
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Dust the chicken pieces lightly with flour.
  2. Brown the chicken in olive oil in a large pot until golden.
  3. Remove chicken and sauté the onion, garlic, mushrooms, and bell pepper in the same pot.
  4. Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up the browned bits.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes and oregano, stirring to combine.
  6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
  7. Remove the lid and cook for another 10 minutes to thicken the sauce. Check the thickest part of each thigh and drumstick with an instant-read thermometer, avoiding bone; each piece must reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

  • Using bone-in chicken adds significantly more flavor to the sauce.
  • Don't rush the browning step, as it provides the foundation for the deep flavor of the stew.
  • If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook it, as it will dry out faster than bone-in thighs.

What wine is best?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works perfectly.

How do I store this?

It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and often tastes better the next day.