Contest-Winning Chicken Cacciatore

Contest-Winning Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty, comforting dish that captures the rustic flavors of Italian countryside cooking. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce with onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and a hint of red wine. Infused with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, each bite of this chicken cacciatore bursts with the robust tastes of garlic and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and fills your kitchen with the inviting aroma of home-cooked comfort food. Serve over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making this meal a winner every time.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Season and Brown the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, red and green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the red wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Add the capers. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the flavors meld together.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoy this Contest-Winning Chicken Cacciatore served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory sauce. Its combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes it a beloved classic that will impress family and friends alike!