Chicken Cacciatore
Here is a straightforward way to make Chicken Cacciatore at home, with a clear ingredient list and step-by-step instructions you can follow without guesswork. Sweet without being heavy, it works just as well for an afternoon treat as for dessert. Read through the tips before you start — a couple of small details go a long way with this one.
- Serves 4
- Level Medium
Ingredients
- 1 0.5 cups (360 ml), chopped onion
- 3 lb (1350 g), chicken parts with skin removed
- 14 oz (400 g) can of tomatoes with juice
- 5 0.5 oz (155 g) can of tomato paste
- 10 oz (280 g) can of mushroom pieces, drained
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp To taste Pepper
- ¼ tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Dried whole oregano
- ½ tsp Dried sweet basil
- ¼ cup (60 ml) of white wine, chicken broth, or alcohol-free white wine
- ½ tsp Liquid gravy browner
- 1 tsp Granulated sugar
Method
- Place onion and chicken in 3 ½ quart (3.5 L) slow cooker.
- Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl. Stir.
- Pour over chicken and cover the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Discard bay leaf and serve.
Tips for the best Chicken Cacciatore
- Read the whole method before you start and measure out the 14 ingredients first — it keeps the pace relaxed once the heat is on.
- Keep the simmer gentle. A hard boil toughens 0.5 cups (360 ml) and drives off the liquid too fast.
- Rest the finished dish for a few minutes before serving — it lets the flavours settle and the texture firm up.
Variations
- Fusion twist: keep the method but swap the spices for your own favourites — the Italian base takes well to it.
- Slow cooker: brown everything first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours instead of simmering.
- Spicier version: add a pinch of chilli flakes or a sliced fresh chilli with the aromatics.
Serving ideas
Best with fresh berries on the side and a little whipped cream.
Storage
Keeps in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. Most versions freeze well for 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
Is this Chicken Cacciatore recipe hard to make?
It is rated hard: 14 ingredients and 5 steps. Follow the order and the tips above and it is very forgiving.
How many people does this Chicken Cacciatore recipe serve?
As written it serves 4. The quantities scale up or down in a straight line, so double everything for 4×2.
What can I substitute for 0.5 cups (360 ml)?
Any ingredient with a similar texture and cooking time works; see the variations below for ideas. Keep quantities the same and adjust seasoning at the end.
Can I make Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?
Yes. It actually improves after a few hours, so make it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.
Adapted from Wikibooks Cookbook, CC BY-SA 4.0 — source
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