CHICKEN CACCIATORA: POLLO ALLA CACCIATORA
Pollo alla Cacciatora or Pollo alla Fiorentina, is a typical Tuscan recipe that has its origins in the region’s peasant culinary tradition.
The recipe has as its main protagonist the chicken precisely, browned together with classic vegetables, blended with wine and cooked further in tomato puree to make the meat soft and appetizing.
Chicken Cacciatora, also known as Pollo alla Cacciatora, is a hearty and flavorful Italian dish that embodies the essence of rustic, home-cooked meals. Translating to “hunter’s chicken,” this recipe features tender chicken pieces braised in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms.
Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, Chicken Cacciatora is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or polenta, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.
The Origins of Chicken Cacciatora
The name “cacciatora” comes from the Italian word cacciatore, meaning hunter. Historically, this dish was a way to prepare game meat or poultry with ingredients readily available in the countryside, such as tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables. Over time, it has become a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, with regional variations adding their own unique twists.
Chicken Cacciatora Recipe:
SERVINGS:4
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup of peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup of red wine
- 2 stalk of celery
- 2 clove of garlic
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- salt, pepper and extra virgin olive oil to taste
VIDEO RECIPE:
METHOD
Dissect chicken and set aside.
Dice the celery, carrot, and onion.
Sauté 2 cloves of garlic in a pan with extra virgin olive oil, remove them and sauté the previously diced celery, carrot and onion for about 10 minutes.
In another pan, with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, let the chicken brown.
Once browned, add the chicken to the sautéed carrot, celery and onion and deglaze with red wine.
We let the wine fade and add the tomatoes, crushing them with our hands.
We put the lid on and let it cook for about 40 minutes on low heat (halfway through cooking we turn the chicken).
Plate and…. enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Cacciatora
- Choose bone-in chicken: Bone-in pieces add more flavor and stay moist during cooking.
- Deglaze the pan: The wine helps lift the browned bits from the pan, adding depth to the sauce.
- Simmer gently: Slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Customize the vegetables: Add carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes for a heartier dish.
Variations of Chicken Cacciatora
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Herb Swap: Use basil or sage in place of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Tomato-Free: Replace the tomatoes with chicken stock and white wine for a lighter, broth-based version.
- Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or fish for a coastal Italian variation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Cacciatora is a dish that delivers bold flavors and rustic charm with minimal effort. Its rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs create a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, pappardelle, or fettuccine for a classic pairing.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta complements the rich sauce perfectly.
- Crusty bread: Ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Green salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion
Chicken Cacciatora is a timeless Italian dish that combines simplicity with bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, aromatic sauce and tender chicken. Try it today and bring a taste of rustic Italy to your table!
