Delicious Chicken Cacciatore: A Hearty Italian Classic

Chicken Cacciatore, also known as “Hunter’s Chicken,” is a traditional Italian dish that is rich in flavors, hearty, and truly comforting. The dish features chicken braised in a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and a blend of aromatic herbs. It is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion and pairs wonderfully with pasta or crusty bread.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 3/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the chicken on both sides until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a boil and let it reduce by half.
8. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to combine.
9. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
10. Add the capers and black olives, if using.
11. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the dish simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Chicken Cacciatore over a bed of pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad also complements the dish perfectly. Enjoy!