Name: Skillet Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Skillet Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Cooked all in one skillet, this hearty meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and is bursting with rich, home-cooked flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-skillet meal is both convenient and deeply flavorful. The chicken is seared to perfection and then simmered in a sauce of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and herbs until tender. It’s a balanced meal on its own or pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. The simplicity of ingredients and method makes it accessible for any home cook.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Olive oil
Garlic cloves
Onion
Bell peppers (red and green)
Mushrooms
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Dry white wine or chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
Stir in tomato paste, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and wine (or broth). Add Italian seasoning.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: Use boneless thighs or chicken breasts for a lighter variation.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and skip the browning step.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Olive Addition: Add black or green olives for a briny depth of flavor.
No Wine: Substitute white wine with low-sodium chicken broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in intervals. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this with boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well but may cook faster, so adjust simmer time accordingly.

What’s the best wine for this dish?

A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the sauce well.

Can I use canned mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms are preferred, but canned can be used if drained and rinsed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tomato paste and other ingredients are gluten-free.

What should I serve with chicken cacciatore?

It pairs excellently with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, after browning the chicken and building the sauce, you can bake it at 375°F for 30–40 minutes.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer uncovered or add a spoonful of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, carrots, or celery make excellent additions.

Is it suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and is easy to portion for future meals.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore is a satisfying and nourishing dish that embodies the comfort of home cooking. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a reliable favorite for any night of the week. Serve it with your choice of side for a wholesome and complete meal.

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore

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Skillet Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty and rustic Italian dish featuring tender chicken simmered with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs in a single skillet for a flavorful one-pan meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Uncover and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken the sauce, if desired.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.