Rustic Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Chicken cacciatore unleashes rustic Mediterranean magic on your dinner plate, transforming humble ingredients into a flavor-packed sensation.

This hunter-style masterpiece originated in rural Italian kitchens, where resourceful cooks crafted remarkable meals from simple components.

Generations have embraced the dish’s soulful blend of tender chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

The recipe whispers stories of countryside kitchens and family gatherings, promising comfort in every savory spoonful.

Golden-brown chicken pieces nestled in a robust sauce represent more than just a meal, they’re a culinary journey through Italian tradition.

Each ingredient contributes its unique voice to a symphony of taste that dances between rustic charm and elegant complexity.

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy with this irresistible classic.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 380 kcal

Servings: 5

Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore: Ingredient List

• Chicken Thighs, Chicken Breasts: Choose organic, free-range cuts with minimal fat for tender, flavorful results; room temperature meat ensures even cooking.

• Red Bell Pepper: Select vibrant, firm peppers with smooth skin and no blemishes.
• Onion: Pick firm, heavy onions with tight, dry outer skin for maximum sweetness.
• Garlic Cloves: Choose plump, firm bulbs with no soft spots or sprouting.
• Dry White Wine: Opt for crisp, unoaked varieties like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Diced Tomatoes: Look for San Marzano or fire-roasted for deeper flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth: Select low-sodium versions to control salt content.
• Capers: Prefer brined capers for bright, tangy burst.

• Dried Oregano: Choose high-quality, fragrant dried herbs from reputable brands.
• Salt, Pepper: Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Select bright green, crisp leaves with no wilting.
• All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for light, even coating.
• Olive Oil: Select extra virgin for rich, authentic taste.

Tools You’ll Need for Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore

• Large Heavy Skillet: Perfect for even browning and building rich flavors.
• Paper Towels: Essential for drying chicken to ensure crispy exterior.
• Cutting Board: Needed for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp tool for precise vegetable and herb chopping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Help accurately portion ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and scraping pan while cooking.
• Clean Plate: Used for holding browned chicken during sauce preparation.
• Serving Platter: Presents the finished dish beautifully.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Follow These Directions for Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore

Sizzle and Savor Chicken Skillet

• Prepare Chicken with Flair

Grab your chicken and give it a quick pat dry. Sprinkle both sides with a generous dash of salt and pepper. Dust the pieces lightly with flour, creating a delicate coating that’ll turn golden and crispy.

• Brown to Perfection

Fire up a heavy skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Nestle the chicken pieces into the pan, letting them sizzle and dance. Cook each side until a gorgeous golden-brown crust forms, about 5 minutes. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Set the browned beauties aside on a clean plate.

• Build a Flavor-Packed Sauce

Toss chopped bell peppers, onions, and garlic into the same skillet. Let them mingle and soften until the onions become translucent. Pour in white wine and let it reduce, concentrating those delicious flavors. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, capers, and a sprinkle of oregano. Stir and let the magic happen.

• Simmer and Meld

Gently return the chicken to the bubbling sauce, making sure it’s mostly submerged. Lower the heat and let everything simmer together. Chicken breasts need about 30 minutes, while thighs are perfect at 20. Ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safe, juicy results.

• Serve with Swagger

Carefully lift the chicken from the sauce. If the sauce looks a bit thin, let it reduce for a few more minutes. Skim any excess fat from the surface. Arrange the chicken on a beautiful platter, cascade the vibrant sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve alongside pasta or crusty bread for a meal that’ll make taste buds dance.

Flavor Ideas for Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore

• Master Browning Technique: Achieve a perfect golden crust by using a heavy skillet and ensuring chicken is completely dry before seasoning. Pat meat thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which prevents steaming and promotes beautiful caramelization.
• Sauce Consistency Hack: Control thickness by simmering sauce uncovered if too liquid or adding a small amount of cornstarch slurry for quick thickening. Swirl in cold butter at the end for a luxurious, silky texture that enhances overall flavor profile.
• Wine Selection Wisdom: Choose a crisp dry white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc that complements chicken without overpowering other ingredients. Avoid sweet varieties which might make sauce taste unbalanced. Fresh wine delivers brighter, cleaner taste compared to older opened bottles.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare entire dish 1-2 days in advance and store covered in refrigerator. Flavors actually develop deeper complexity when allowed to meld overnight. Gently reheat over low temperature, adding splash of broth if sauce seems dry, to maintain tenderness of chicken pieces.

Presenting Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore Beautifully

• Pair with Pasta Perfection: Serve this flavorful chicken atop al dente linguine or spaghetti, letting the rich sauce coat each strand for a delightful meal.
• Create a Rustic Bread Moment: Grab a crusty baguette or ciabatta to soak up the delicious sauce, turning every bite into a flavor-packed experience.
• Elevate with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra chopped basil or parsley on top, adding a bright, fresh pop of color and zesty flavor that complements the hearty chicken.
• Complement with Light Sides: Add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables on the side to balance the rich, savory chicken dish and create a complete, satisfying meal.

Keep Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore Fresh

• Preserve Flavor Freshness: Store leftover chicken dishes in airtight containers, separating meat from sauce to maintain optimal texture and prevent sogginess.
• Refrigerate Smart: Keep cooked chicken in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring food safety by placing in shallow containers to cool quickly and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen chicken dishes remain delicious for up to 3 months when properly sealed.
• Reheat with Care: Gently warm refrigerated chicken in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or sauce to restore moisture, avoiding microwave reheating which can dry out the meat and compromise its tender texture.

Ultimate Ina Garten Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s chicken cacciatore brings rustic Italian flavors to home kitchens with tender chicken braised in a rich tomato sauce. Fragrant herbs and wine elevate this classic one-pot meal that delights with its hearty, comforting essence.

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Ingredients

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• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 chicken breasts (with skin and backbone, halved crosswise)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 3 tbsps olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• ¾ cup dry white wine
• 1 (28 oz / 794 g) can of diced tomatoes with juice
• ¾ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 1 ½ tsp dried oregano leaves
• 3 tbsps drained capers
• ¼ cup coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

1. Seasoning Preparation: Generously coat chicken thighs and breasts with salt, black pepper, and a light dusting of all-purpose flour for a protective layer.
2. Chicken Browning: Sear chicken pieces in hot vegetable oil over medium-high heat until golden, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding. Transfer seared chicken to a clean plate.
3. Vegetable Sautéing: In the same skillet, cook bell peppers, onions, and garlic until onions become translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper to amplify the aromatic profile.
4. Deglazing and Sauce Building: Pour white wine into the skillet, reducing by half while scraping up browned bits. Incorporate crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, capers, and dried oregano to create a robust sauce.
5. Simmering Process: Reintroduce chicken pieces into the sauce, ensuring partial submersion. Cover partially and simmer on low heat until chicken reaches proper internal temperature – approximately 25-35 minutes for breasts, 20-30 minutes for thighs.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove chicken and arrange on serving platter. If sauce needs thickening, continue simmering for 2-3 minutes. Skim excess surface fat, then cascade sauce over chicken. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes

• Flour Coating Tip: Lightly dust chicken with flour to create a crispy exterior that locks in moisture and helps develop a rich, golden-brown crust during searing.
• Batch Cooking Strategy: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning chicken to ensure each piece develops a perfect golden color and maintains even heat distribution.
• Wine Deglazing Magic: Use white wine to lift and incorporate delicious browned bits from the skillet bottom, adding depth and complexity to the sauce’s overall flavor profile.
• Sauce Consistency Secret: Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered in the final stages to naturally thicken and concentrate flavors, creating a more intense and robust sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg