
Chicken Cacciatore
This is a classic Italian dish that translates to “hunter’s chicken.” It’s a rustic, hearty meal that combines chicken with tomatoes, olives, and herbs. The dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Source: Joy of Cooking (2019), p. 422. Ingredients 3.5 to 4.0 lb chicken parts (legs, thighs, wings), preferably thighs 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 bay leaf 1 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crumbled 1/2 tsp dried sage, crumbled 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 8 oz mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup dry white/red wine 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup of black olives, pitted and sliced Directions Prepare the chicken Rinse and pat dry the chicken parts. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken parts and brown each side for about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. Sauté the vegetables In the same skillet, add the onion, bay leaf, rosemary, sage, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic, and sauté for another 5 minutes. Deglaze the skillet Pour in the wine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Return the chicken Add the chicken back to the skillet, simmer on medium-high heat until the wine has nearly evaporated. Add tomatoes and broth Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and olives. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Thicken the sauce Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Serve Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the chicken cacciatore over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.