Chicken & Turkey

Chicken Cacciatore

Name: Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

By Lena Carmody · June 19, 2026 · Chicken & Turkey

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made Chicken Cacciatore for my family. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and rich tomatoes was a huge hit, and it's been a staple in our household ever since.

As a former competitive rower, I know how important it is to fuel your body with nutritious and delicious food. That's why I love making protein-forward meals like Chicken Cacciatore, which is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that's easy to make and can be prepared in no time. Whether you're a busy professional or an avid home cook, you'll love the simplicity and flavor of this dish.

One of the best things about Chicken Cacciatore is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from pasta and rice to roasted vegetables and garlic bread. And the best part? It's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you have in your pantry or fridge.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a classic Chicken Cacciatore dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.
It's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you have in your pantry or fridge.
The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, from pasta and rice to roasted vegetables and garlic bread.
It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
The recipe is customizable, so you can add your own favorite ingredients and spices to make it your own.
It's a great way to get your daily dose of protein and vegetables in one delicious meal.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great Chicken Cacciatore is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the chicken and vegetables in a way that brings out their natural flavors. By using a combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, we can create a rich and savory flavor profile that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a hot skillet to sear the chicken and cook the vegetables. This helps to lock in the juices and flavors of the ingredients, creating a dish that's both tender and flavorful.

Finally, the addition of tomatoes and mushrooms adds a burst of flavor and texture to the dish, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Chicken Cacciatore dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Chicken Cacciatore, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken thighs, mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh mushrooms and ripe tomatoes, to get the best flavor out of your dish.

When shopping for ingredients, look for chicken thighs that are plump and have a good balance of meat and fat. You'll also want to choose a variety of mushrooms that have a rich, earthy flavor, such as cremini or shiitake.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChoose chicken thighs that are plump and have a good balance of meat and fat. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs will give you a more tender and juicy result.
2 cups mixed mushrooms, slicedChoose a variety of mushrooms that have a rich, earthy flavor, such as cremini, shiitake, or a combination of both. Be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
2 tablespoons olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that has a rich, fruity flavor. This will help to bring out the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
3 cloves garlic, mincedMince the garlic finely so it cooks evenly and doesn't overpower the other flavors in the dish. You can also use more or less garlic to taste.
1 teaspoon dried thymeThyme has a rich, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and mushrooms. You can also use fresh thyme if you prefer, but be sure to chop it finely so it distributes evenly.
1/2 teaspoon saltUse a high-quality salt that has a rich, savory flavor. This will help to bring out the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse a freshly ground black pepper that has a sharp, peppery flavor. This will help to add depth and complexity to the dish.
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoesChoose a high-quality canned tomato that has a rich, tangy flavor. Look for a brand that uses San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
1/4 cup white wineUse a dry white wine that has a crisp, refreshing flavor. This will help to add depth and complexity to the dish.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsleyChoose fresh parsley that has a bright, fresh flavor. This will help to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheeseUse a high-quality Parmesan cheese that has a rich, nutty flavor. This will help to add depth and complexity to the dish.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2
Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, until the herbs are fragrant.
5
Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, and browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
6
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, covered, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
7
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast.
8
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
9
Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
10
Let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of your dish.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, cook the chicken and mushrooms in batches if necessary.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Use a variety of mushrooms for a more complex flavor profile.
Add other ingredients, such as bell peppers or onions, to the skillet with the mushrooms for added flavor.
Serve the dish with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to prevent bacterial growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to the proper internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steamed instead of browned chicken and mushrooms.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can result in a less flavorful and less tender final product.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can lead to a less flavorful and less satisfying dish.
Not stirring the sauce regularly, which can lead to a sauce that's too thick or too thin.
Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

Add other ingredients, such as bell peppers or onions, to the skillet with the mushrooms for added flavor.
Use different types of protein, such as shrimp or pork, for a variation on the dish.
Add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a richer and creamier flavor.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter and more acidic flavor.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Serve the dish with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With Chicken Cacciatore

Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. You can also serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Some other ideas for sides include garlic bread, a green salad, or a side of sautéed spinach. You can also serve the dish with a side of polenta or risotto for a more filling meal.

Serve with a side of pasta or riceServe with a side of roasted vegetablesServe with a side of garlic breadServe with a green saladServe with a side of sautéed spinachServe with a side of polenta or risotto

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze for later use. If refrigerating, store the dish in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If freezing, store the dish in an airtight container or freezer bag and keep it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until hot and bubbly.

When reheating, be sure to stir the sauce regularly to prevent it from becoming too thick or too thin. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the sauce if it becomes too thick.

It's also a good idea to label and date the container or bag, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of mushrooms should I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or a combination of both. The most important thing is to choose mushrooms that have a rich, earthy flavor and a tender texture.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that breasts will cook more quickly and may become dry if overcooked. Thighs are preferred because they have a higher fat content, which makes them more tender and juicy.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

You can check the internal temperature of the chicken by using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast. You can also check for doneness by cutting into the chicken and looking for juices that run clear.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the dish according to the recipe, then let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate or freeze the dish for later use, and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

What type of wine should I use for this recipe?

You can use a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for this recipe. The wine will add a rich and complex flavor to the sauce, and will help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Can I substitute other ingredients for the parsley and Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other ingredients for the parsley and Parmesan cheese. Some options include basil, oregano, or thyme for the parsley, and mozzarella, feta, or ricotta for the Parmesan cheese. Keep in mind that these substitutions will change the flavor profile of the dish, so you may need to adjust the amount of salt and pepper you use.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

You can prevent the sauce from becoming too thick by stirring it regularly and adding a splash of water or broth if necessary. You can also add a little bit of cream or coconut milk to the sauce to give it a richer and creamier texture.

Can I serve this dish at a dinner party?

Yes, you can serve this dish at a dinner party. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a special occasion. You can serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, and garnish it with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese for a beautiful and impressive presentation.

The Full Recipe

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