Easy Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

If you’re craving a dish that oozes comfort, warmth, and classic Italian flavors, this Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms recipe is your new go-to. With tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce bursting with colorful bell peppers and earthy mushrooms, it’s both hearty and simple enough for any weeknight dinner. This dish offers a perfect blend of textures and tastes while bringing a cozy homemade touch to your table that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple but Robust Flavor: The combination of bell peppers and mushrooms makes the sauce deeply flavorful without complicated ingredients.
• Hearty and Filling: Tender chicken thighs braised to perfection ensure every bite is juicy and satisfying.
• One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in one pan, meaning less mess and easy cleanup for busy nights.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect served over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes to suit your preference.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors intensify over time, making leftovers even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the sweet crunch of bell peppers to the earthy depth of mushrooms, contributing to a harmonious blend that defines Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms.

• Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for juicy meat and extra flavor during browning.
• Bell peppers: A mix of red and yellow adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or white mushrooms bring a meaty texture and earthiness to the sauce.
• Onion and garlic: Classic aromatics that form the flavorful foundation.
• Diced tomatoes: Use canned for consistency and a rich base for the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, enhancing the simmered flavors.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and enriching the dish with smooth fruitiness.
• Dried oregano and thyme: Essential Italian herbs that bring authentic brightness.
• Salt and pepper: To season and balance the dish perfectly.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle, warm kick if you like a touch of heat.

Variations for Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Feel free to make this recipe your own by customizing it with a few easy substitutions or additions based on what you like or have on hand. This flexibility ensures it fits your dietary needs and taste preferences.

• Use chicken breasts: Swap thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat, adjusting cooking time to avoid drying out.
• Add olives: Green or black olives provide a salty, briny depth that complements the tomato sauce beautifully.
• Include fresh herbs: Toss in fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant aroma.
• Incorporate wine: A splash of dry white or red wine during cooking can elevate the sauce’s complexity.
• Make it vegetarian: Use hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini instead of chicken for a plant-based version.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Lightly season them with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken skin-side down until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add diced onions and cook until softened and translucent. Add sliced bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their juices and start to brown slightly. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the chicken broth. Season with dried oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes if using, plus salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Adjust seasoning if necessary, remove from heat, and let the dish rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

• Brown the chicken well: Taking your time to get a golden crust on the chicken adds rich flavor and texture.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs: They stay tender and juicy during the long simmer compared to boneless options.
• Don’t skip the simmer: Letting the sauce cook low and slow deepens the flavors and softens the vegetables perfectly.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Finish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving adds brightness and freshness.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Garnishes

A simple garnish of chopped fresh parsley or basil elevates the dish, adding fresh color and an herbaceous aroma that complements the rich tomato sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or other pasta varieties, but don’t be afraid to try it over creamy polenta, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, serve directly from the skillet at the table to showcase the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and mushrooms. Alternatively, plate the chicken over a bed of rustic grains like farro or quinoa for a modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making your next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months – perfect for meal prep or a ready-made dinner option.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave leftovers, covering the dish to retain moisture and stirring midway.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to avoid drying out the meat, and sear them gently to retain moisture.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini mushrooms are a great choice due to their firm texture and earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms or even portobello slices can be excellent substitutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides or pasta.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This hands-off method results in extra tender chicken.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild warmth due to optional red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount or skip them entirely to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. It offers a perfectly balanced mix of flavors and textures that’s truly satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers on comfort and taste, making dinner something to look forward to. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to this delicious Italian classic tonight!

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