Italian Hunter’s Chicken is a dish that will transport you straight into the heart of a sun-soaked Italian kitchen, with its rich tomato sauce, juicy chicken, and the irresistible aroma of herbs wafting through your home. This classic comfort food, also known as Pollo alla Cacciatora, captures the rustic charm of Italian countryside cooking, where simple ingredients are lovingly transformed into something unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing family meal or simply craving a wholesome, flavor-packed dinner, Italian Hunter’s Chicken is a treasure that keeps giving—all in about an hour from start to finish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Italian Hunter’s Chicken is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role. From the luscious chicken thighs to the punchy olives and capers, these pantry essentials come together for a dish bursting with color and bold Mediterranean flavors.
- Olive oil: Brings a beautiful richness and acts as the base for building delicious flavor in the pan.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These deliver juicy meat and crisp golden skin that soaks up all the savory sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Keep things simple—these basics highlight every other ingredient and make all the flavors sing.
- Diced onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the savory sauce as it softens in the pan.
- Minced garlic: Just a few cloves infuse the dish with their irresistible aroma and classic Italian warmth.
- Red bell pepper: Bright red pepper lends color and a subtle hint of sweetness.
- Yellow bell pepper: This adds extra color and a mild, fresh flavor for gorgeous presentation.
- Canned diced tomatoes: The foundation for a lush, chunky sauce that soaks into every bite.
- Dry white wine (optional): Use for a gentle tang and depth—it’s optional but highly recommended for extra complexity.
- Chicken broth: Brings savory notes and helps the sauce meld together as it cooks.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps the sauce thicken beautifully.
- Dried oregano: Just the right touch of earthy, robust Mediterranean flavor.
- Dried thyme: Offers subtle lemony notes that pair so well with the chicken and vegetables.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle in for a gentle heat that wakes up the whole dish.
- Pitted black olives: Their briny bite adds bursts of salty flavor in every forkful.
- Capers: Tiny but mighty, capers bring punch and tang for that authentic hunter’s touch.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Add a pop of color and fresh, clean finish right before serving.
How to Make Italian Hunter’s Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Let’s start strong! Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat your chicken thighs dry, season generously with salt and pepper, and nestle them skin-side down into the hot oil. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin turns gloriously golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing both sides to get a tasty, savory crust. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate while you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
With the chicken set aside, keep the party going in the same pan. Toss in the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds—just long enough to unleash its fragrance and avoid burning. The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Build the Sauce
Next, stir in your red and yellow bell pepper slices. Cook these for 4 to 5 minutes, letting them soften slightly while keeping their color and sweetness intact. Now, pour in the diced tomatoes (along with any juices), white wine (if you’re using it), chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you fancy a little kick. Stir to combine, scraping up any caramelized bits from the pan for maximum flavor, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken thighs to the pan, positioning them skin-side up so they soak up all that beautiful sauce without losing their crispy skins. Gently spoon some sauce over each piece, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it all simmer away for 30 to 35 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible, and you’ll know the chicken is done when it’s tender and the sauce has melded with all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Add Olives, Capers, and Finish
Uncover your skillet and stir in the sliced olives and capers, giving the dish a final layer of briny, tangy goodness. Let it all cook together, uncovered, for another 5 to 10 minutes so the sauce can thicken to your liking. Right before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and garden-fresh aroma. Congratulations, you’ve made Italian Hunter’s Chicken!
How to Serve Italian Hunter’s Chicken
Garnishes
For a restaurant-worthy finish, pile on a shower of fresh parsley right before serving. Don’t be shy—it brightens up the whole dish! You can also add an extra dash of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil to highlight the rustic flavors of your Italian Hunter’s Chicken. A few lemon wedges on the side can add a lovely zesty note for those who crave brightness.
Side Dishes
There’s nothing quite like pairing Italian Hunter’s Chicken with a big hunk of crusty bread for mopping up that savory sauce—trust me, not a drop should go to waste! Polenta is another dreamy choice, providing a creamy, comforting bed for the chicken and sauce. If you’re more of a pasta lover, serve it over silky noodles or even with a scoop of herbed rice for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Have fun playing chef: Serve individual portions in shallow bowls with plenty of sauce and garnish. For a rustic Italian feast, bring the skillet straight to the table and let everyone help themselves family-style. Or spoon your Italian Hunter’s Chicken over grilled bread for a bold, open-faced sandwich twist that’s perfect for casual gatherings or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Italian Hunter’s Chicken saves beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to mingle and deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if you find it even tastier the next day. Make sure to cool the chicken and sauce completely before storing.
Freezing
This dish is a freezer hero. Simply allow your Italian Hunter’s Chicken to cool completely, then transfer it (sauce and all) into a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place your Italian Hunter’s Chicken in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Warm gently, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but stovetop reheating usually preserves the tenderness of the chicken and the texture of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make Italian Hunter’s Chicken with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat—just watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out. You may want to reduce the simmering time by about 5 to 10 minutes.
What’s the best substitute for white wine if I can’t use alcohol?
If you’d rather skip the wine, simply add extra chicken broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for a subtle tang—it won’t compromise the taste of Italian Hunter’s Chicken at all!
Is this dish traditionally spicy?
Not necessarily. The optional crushed red pepper flakes give you full control; leave them out for a milder flavor, or add more if you love a bit of heat with your Italian Hunter’s Chicken.
Can I prepare Italian Hunter’s Chicken ahead of time for a dinner party?
Definitely! In fact, making it a day ahead can deepen the flavors. Just reheat gently and serve with fresh parsley right before your guests arrive for a stress-free, showstopping dinner.
What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?
This dish is super flexible! Try tossing in mushrooms, zucchini, or even a few artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture—Italian Hunter’s Chicken adapts to whatever’s in your fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, soul-warming dinner that brings Italy’s rustic charm right into your kitchen, Italian Hunter’s Chicken is as rewarding as it gets. Every bite is packed with flavor, comfort, and love—so why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic tonight? Mangia!
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Italian Hunter’s Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Hunter’s Chicken recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a savory tomato-based sauce, bell peppers, olives, and capers. Perfect for a cozy dinner with a Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear chicken, skin-side down, for 4-5 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onion until softened. Add garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Add bell peppers, cook until tender. Stir in tomatoes, wine, broth, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Simmer.
- Finish Cooking: Return chicken to the pan, skin-side up. Simmer covered for 30-35 minutes. Stir in olives and capers. Cook uncovered for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- This dish is traditionally known as ‘Pollo alla Cacciatora’ in Italy.
- Serve with crusty bread, polenta, or pasta.
- For a leaner option, use skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 610 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
