![- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced - 1 zucchini, sliced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) For this Easy Chicken Cacciatore, I use chicken thighs. They stay juicy and packed with flavor. You can buy them bone-in and skin-on for the best taste. The skin adds a crispy texture when you brown it. Next, I grab some fresh vegetables. Onion and garlic are key aromatics that build the base. I love using a bell pepper for sweetness and a zucchini for extra color. These veggies soak up all the tasty juices. The sauce comes together with diced tomatoes and chicken broth. These bring a rich and hearty flavor. I add dried oregano and basil for that classic taste of Italian cuisine. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Finally, for a lovely touch, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can find the full recipe linked above to guide you through the cooking process. - Prepping the chicken and vegetables Start with four chicken thighs. Make sure they are bone-in and skin-on. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step keeps the chicken juicy. Next, chop one medium onion and three garlic cloves. Slice one bell pepper and one zucchini. - Browning the chicken thighs In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil on medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the hot oil. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. The skin should turn golden brown. Then flip them over and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. - Sautéing the aromatics and vegetables In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent and fragrant. Now, toss in the sliced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until they soften a bit. - Combining ingredients to create the sauce Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. Add one cup of chicken broth, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of dried basil. Mix everything well to combine the flavors. - Cooking time and heat adjustments Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Nestle them into the vegetable mix. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To make juicy chicken, choose bone-in, skin-on thighs. They stay moist during cooking. Brown them well for flavor. This step adds a nice crust, making the dish richer. For sauce consistency, you can adjust it easily. If it’s too thick, add more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, cook it uncovered for a few minutes. This helps it thicken up nicely. When it comes to pairing, crusty bread is a great choice. It soaks up the sauce well. You can also serve this dish over pasta or rice for a heartier meal. Feel free to add a side salad for some crunch. For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy your cooking! {{image_2}} You can make chicken cacciatore your own. Start by using different proteins. Turkey thighs work well if you want a leaner option. You can even swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian dish. Next, think about the vegetables. While the recipe calls for bell peppers and zucchini, you can add more. Try mushrooms, carrots, or even spinach. This gives your dish more color and flavor. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, skip the spice. You can also use smoked paprika for a unique twist. These variations let you tailor the dish to your family's likes. With the full recipe in hand, the possibilities are endless! To keep your Easy Chicken Cacciatore fresh, follow these tips. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Once it cools, store leftovers in an airtight container. You can place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, freezing works well too. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, use a stovetop or microwave. If you use the stove, heat it gently over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth for moisture. Stir occasionally until it is heated through. If using a microwave, cover the container and heat in short bursts. This ensures even heating and keeps the chicken moist. By following these steps, you can enjoy your Easy Chicken Cacciatore any time! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Can I make Easy Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time? Yes, you can make Easy Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time. Just cook it fully and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will deepen as it sits. This makes it a great meal prep option. What can I serve with this dish? You can serve Easy Chicken Cacciatore with various sides. Here are some ideas: - Crusty bread for dipping - Pasta, like spaghetti or penne - Rice for a hearty option - A fresh green salad for balance Each option enhances the dish and adds texture. How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions? To adjust for dietary needs, consider these swaps: - Use skinless chicken for a lighter option. - Substitute low-sodium chicken broth if you watch your salt. - For a vegan version, swap chicken with mushrooms or tofu. - Use gluten-free pasta or bread if needed. These changes keep the dish tasty while fitting your diet. What is the origin of Chicken Cacciatore? Chicken Cacciatore comes from Italy, meaning "hunter's chicken." It features ingredients that hunters would use, like vegetables and herbs. Each region in Italy has its twist, making it a beloved dish. The mix of chicken, tomatoes, and herbs reflects the rustic cooking style of Italian homes. Easy Chicken Cacciatore is a simple yet flavorful dish. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips to make it perfect. You can adjust this recipe to fit your taste and needs. Proper storage techniques extend its freshness. Remember, you can make this dish ahead or customize it with your favorite add-ins. Enjoy the warm, rich flavors of this classic meal. It’s a recipe everyone loves!](https://greenmealmap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/f131f526-1080-4996-95c7-e2e4943ce01e-250x250.webp)
Easy Chicken Cacciatore
Discover how to make Easy Chicken Cacciatore, a delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! With tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce filled with colorful veggies, this dish is both satisfying and simple. Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s great for family dinners or meal prep.