Name: Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a rustic, one-pan Italian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a savory tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. Bursting with hearty flavor and vibrant color, this comforting classic is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This version of chicken cacciatore is made in a skillet for faster cooking and minimal cleanup, without sacrificing the rich, slow-cooked taste. The sauce is bold and aromatic, the chicken juicy and tender, and the sweet peppers add beautiful contrast in texture and flavor. Serve it with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

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

Boneless or bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
Olive oil
Bell peppers (red and yellow, sliced)
Yellow onion (sliced)
Garlic (minced)
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Dry white wine or chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear on both sides until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute.
Deglaze the pan with white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits.
Add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies.
Olive Lovers: Add pitted black or green olives for a briny twist.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra depth.
Slow Cooker: Sear chicken and vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, though thighs stay more tender. Adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking breasts.

Do I have to use wine?

No, chicken broth works just as well for deglazing and flavor.

What type of tomatoes are best?

Crushed tomatoes create a thick, rustic sauce. Diced or whole tomatoes can also be used if blended.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors improve with time. It’s great for meal prep or reheating.

What should I serve it with?

Pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are all excellent options.

Can I cook it in the oven instead?

Yes. After assembling the skillet, transfer it to a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just confirm your broth and seasonings.

Can I add capers?

Yes, capers add a tangy burst that complements the tomato sauce well.

Can I skip the searing step?

Searing adds flavor and color but can be skipped if short on time. Simmer longer to fully cook the chicken.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and scale up ingredients proportionally.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and full of traditional Italian charm. With its rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, it’s a one-pan dinner that’s both rustic and refined. Perfect for family meals or easy entertaining, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a rustic Italian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a savory tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and herbs. This one-pan meal is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a hearty dinner any night of the week.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and wine (or broth), then stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.
Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.