A Rustic Italian Comfort Food Recipe for Every Home Cook

Classic Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers and Tomato Sauce is one of those timeless dishes that feels both comforting and impressive at the same time. Rooted in traditional Italian cooking, chicken cacciatore—literally translating to “hunter-style chicken”—is known for its rich tomato base, tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and beautifully softened peppers and onions. This dish has traveled across generations and borders, earning its place as a beloved staple in family kitchens around the world.

What makes this recipe special is its balance of simplicity and depth. With everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that tastes like it simmered all afternoon in a countryside Italian kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting guests for a cozy weekend dinner, this classic chicken cacciatore delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction every time.

What Is Chicken Cacciatore?

Chicken cacciatore originated in Italy as a rustic hunter’s dish made with whatever ingredients were available—typically chicken, tomatoes, onions, herbs, and sometimes wine or mushrooms. Over time, regional variations emerged, but the heart of the dish remained the same: slow-simmered chicken in a deeply flavorful tomato sauce.

In Italian-American kitchens, chicken cacciatore evolved into a hearty, comforting meal often served with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread. This version stays true to the classic flavors while remaining accessible for modern home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken Cacciatore

Deep, slow-simmered flavor without complicated techniques
One-pan comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners
Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt
Even better the next day, making it great for meal prep
A true crowd-pleaser with universal appeal

Ingredients

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 bay leaf
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the same pan, stirring to coat in the remaining oil and chicken drippings.
Cook vegetables for 6–8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
Add oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Nestle the browned chicken back into the sauce, skin-side up.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Chicken Cacciatore

Use bone-in chicken for deeper flavor and juicier meat.
Don’t rush the simmer. Slow cooking allows the sauce to develop richness.
Deglaze the pan by scraping up browned bits after searing the chicken—this adds incredible depth.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so flavors meld beautifully.

Variations and Add-Ins

Mushroom Chicken Cacciatore: Add sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the peppers.
Wine-Enhanced Version: Deglaze the pan with ½ cup dry red wine before adding tomatoes.
Spicy Cacciatore: Increase red pepper flakes or add sliced chili peppers.
Slow Cooker Option: Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

What to Serve with Chicken Cacciatore

Creamy polenta
Al dente pasta
Mashed potatoes
Crusty Italian bread
Simple green salad

Storage and Reheating

Chicken cacciatore stores beautifully. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Cultural Fun Fact

The term cacciatore comes from the Italian word cacciatore, meaning “hunter.” Traditionally, hunter-style dishes were prepared with tomatoes, herbs, and wine—ingredients easily preserved or foraged, making this dish both practical and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Classic Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers and Tomato Sauce is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It’s comforting, nourishing, and deeply satisfying—a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re honoring Italian tradition or just craving a cozy homemade meal, this dish delivers timeless flavor every single time.