Classic Chicken Cacciatore – One-Pot Mediterranean Marvel

Classic Chicken Cacciatore – One-Pot Mediterranean Marvel

Key Info:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 65 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Moderate

Dietary Tags: Gluten-free, Low-carb, Dairy-free

Equipment Needed:

• Large Dutch oven or heavy skillet with lid
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

Chicken and Proteins:

• 6-8 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

Vegetables:

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce Components:

• 1 cup dry red wine (Merlot recommended)
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: 1/4 cup kalamata olives

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 fresh thyme sprigs
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Method:

1. Prep the Chicken
   • Pat chicken pieces completely dry
   • Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides
   • Pro Tip: Dry meat browns better!
2. Brown the Chicken
   • Heat olive oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat
   • Place chicken skin-side down
   • Brown for 4 minutes per side until golden
   • Remove chicken and set aside
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   • In same pan, add chopped vegetables
   • Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened
   • Add minced garlic and herbs
   • Watch carefully to prevent burning
4. Build the Sauce
   • Pour in red wine
   • Reduce by half (about 5 minutes)
   • Add crushed tomatoes
   • Stir to combine
5. Combine and Simmer
   • Return chicken to pan
   • Cover and simmer on low heat
   • Cook for 25-30 minutes
   • Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F

Crucial Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning
• Let wine reduce completely for rich flavor
• Patience is key with slow cooking

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over:
  • Creamy polenta
  • Al dente pasta
  • Crusty Italian bread
  • Cauliflower rice

Storage:

• Refrigerate in airtight container
• Keeps fresh for 3-4 days
• Flavors improve overnight

Variations:

• Swap red wine for white wine
• Add kalamata olives for extra tang
• Include carrots for sweetness
• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbs: 10-15g

Final Thoughts:

This isn’t just a recipe – it’s a journey through an Italian kitchen. Every bite tells a story of tradition, love, and incredible flavor. Buon appetito!