Italian Hunter's Chicken

Recipe

Italian Hunter's Chicken

Rustic Tuscan Chicken Stew

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this hearty and comforting Pollo alla cacciatora recipe. This traditional Italian dish, originating from Tuscany, features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables.

Jan Dec

15 minutes

40 minutes

55 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Mediterranean diet, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Low-carb, High-protein

N/A

Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Keto, Nut-free

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 5g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 7g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  2. 2.
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  3. 3.
    Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. 4.
    In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. 5.
    Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  6. 6.
    Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
  7. 7.
    Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Place the rosemary sprigs on top.
  8. 8.
    Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  9. 9.
    Remove the rosemary sprigs and discard. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
  10. 10.
    Serve the Pollo alla cacciatora hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Chicken thighs — For the best flavor and tenderness, use bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs. They will remain juicy and impart more richness to the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making it in advance for a stress-free meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Pollo alla cacciatora with crusty bread or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in a rustic clay pot or on a large platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the chicken and vegetables.