Pollo alla Cacciatora
Pollo alla Cacciatora is a traditional Italian dish that showcases chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce with tomatoes, olives, and herbs, perfect for a hearty family meal.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 2
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet, browning on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- 3
Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- 4
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black olives, dried oregano, and dried thyme; bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 6
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and let everything simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- 7
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving.
- 8
Garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
Cook notes
Tips
Make sure to brown the chicken well for depth of flavor.
Taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Substitutions
- Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or chicken breasts as per your preference.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
What to Serve With
- Crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette greens.
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting side.
Common Mistakes
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Don't skip browning the chicken; it's key for flavor.
- Make sure to add enough seasoning; taste as you go.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out faster; make sure to check doneness early.
What type of olives are best for this dish?
Black olives work best, but you can also use green olives for a different flavor.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, Pollo alla Cacciatora tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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