Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a rustic, Italian-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms in a rich tomato-based sauce. This one-pan recipe is both comforting and flavorful, ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is full of deep, savory flavor thanks to a slow-simmered sauce that perfectly complements the seared chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible and budget-friendly. Everything cooks in one skillet, which simplifies cleanup. Whether served over pasta, rice, or polenta, this recipe brings the warmth of home-cooked Italian comfort food to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened. Add mushrooms and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and stir to combine. Pour in the white wine or broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Uncover and simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes if you want a thicker sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, and cook time is about 45 minutes, resulting in a total time of 60 minutes.

Variations

– Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking and easier eating.
– Swap mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant for a different vegetable profile.
– Add capers or olives for a briny Mediterranean twist.
– Serve over polenta for a traditional Northern Italian pairing.
– Use red wine instead of white for a richer sauce.

Storage / Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or microwave in a covered dish until heated through.
For freezing, transfer the cooled chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, though breasts may cook faster and are leaner. Be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

What kind of wine works best?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works well. You can also use chicken broth as a substitute.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but the crushed red pepper flakes add a mild kick. Adjust or omit according to your preference.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, the flavors deepen over time. It’s an excellent dish to make ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

What should I serve this with?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, polenta, or a crusty loaf of bread.

Can I use canned mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms are preferred for texture and flavor, but canned can be used if drained well.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, simply use chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels on store-bought items like tomato paste and broth.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Absolutely. Fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme can elevate the flavor even further.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce to your liking.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a delicious, hearty meal that’s full of bold Italian flavors. It’s a comforting and versatile dish that’s as perfect for a family dinner as it is for entertaining guests. With easy prep, one-skillet cleanup, and a rich tomato base, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Let me know when you’re ready for the next recipe!

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