Print

Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms
Print Recipe

Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms is an easy-to-make, vibrant Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with sweet bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal is flavorful, comforting, and adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Vegetables

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 8 oz button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pantry Staples

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Liquids

  • 1/2 cup red wine or chicken broth (optional but recommended)

Herbs & Garnishes

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, then remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in diced onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Then add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they soften and begin to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Build the Sauce: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using, splash in the red wine or chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping the pan to incorporate the browned bits for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken thighs into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and vegetables. Cover and let cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Uncover in the last few minutes if you want a thicker sauce.
  5. Final Touches: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley to add brightness and freshness.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken well to ensure a perfect sear with crispy edges and enhanced flavor.
  • Don’t rush the vegetables; gradual caramelization builds depth and sweetness in the sauce.
  • Cremini mushrooms add a richer flavor compared to button mushrooms.
  • Use quality canned tomatoes such as San Marzano for an authentic, delicious sauce base.
  • Simmer the dish gently on low heat to keep chicken tender and allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken cacciatore, bell peppers, mushrooms, Italian chicken recipe, one-pot meal, weeknight dinner, gluten free, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/chicken-cacciatore-with-bell-peppers-and-mushrooms/