Chicken cacciatore is an Italian dish of chicken braised in a tomato-based sauce and often includes wild mushrooms.

It is frequently referred to as “hunter style” as the wordcacciatoremeans “hunter” in Italian.

Why “hunter” style?

Chicken Cacciatore

Elise Bauer

If you prefer it without one or both of these ingredients, yo feel free to leave them out.

Many people also add green olives or capers which would be great additions as well.

Chicken Cacciatore (Hunter Style Chicken)

This recipe calls for added wine, which is traditional.

Chicken Cacciatore

Elise Bauer

It does add to the flavor.

If you have a dietary restriction that prohibits wine, just omit.

Season on all sides with salt.

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Elise Bauer

Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat.

Cook until nicely browned, about 5 minutes, then turn over and lightly brown the other side.

Remove chicken to a bowl, set aside.

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Elise Bauer

Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat.

Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the pan.

Increase the heat to medium high.

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Elise Bauer

Add the garlic to the pan and cook a minute more.

Add the wine and scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan.

Simmer until the wine is reduced by half.

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Elise Bauer

Stir in the pepper, thyme, oregano, and about a teaspoon of salt.

Test and taste to adjust.

Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes.

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Elise Bauer

Place the chicken pieces on top of the tomatoes and onions, skin side up.

Lower the heat and cover the skillet with the lid slightly ajar.

Cook the chicken on a low simmer, turning and basting from time to time.

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Elise Bauer

Cook until the thighs are tender, about 30 to 40 minutes.

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Elise Bauer

Chicken Cacciatore

Elise Bauer