Simple and Delicious: Easy Chicken Cacciatore Recipe for Busy Weeknights
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to prepare a hearty and satisfying meal can often feel like a daunting task. However, with the right recipe in hand, you can whip up a delicious dinner that will leave your family asking for seconds. Enter Chicken Cacciatore – a classic Italian dish that is both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a simple yet mouthwatering Chicken Cacciatore recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
To make Chicken Cacciatore, you’ll need:
- Chicken pieces (such as thighs or drumsticks)
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Bell peppers
- Garlic
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Chicken broth
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, accompanied by cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
- For a richer sauce, you can deglaze the skillet with red wine before adding the tomatoes and broth.
- To make this dish in a slow cooker, simply brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer-term storage.
Conclusion:
With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, Chicken Cacciatore is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this easy recipe is sure to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!
