Easy Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish packed with vibrant flavors, this Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms is just what you need. This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with colorful bell peppers and earthy mushrooms, making every bite a perfect balance of savory and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe brings warmth and simplicity right to your kitchen table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed simplicity: The blend of bell peppers and mushrooms adds depth without complicated steps.
• Healthy and wholesome: Lean chicken paired with nutrient-rich vegetables creates a balanced meal.
• One-pot ease: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious dinner.
• Comfort food classic: Brings a touch of Italy straight to your home with familiar, soothing flavors.
• Versatile for any skill level: Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable and forgiving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one contributes a unique layer of taste, texture, or color, coming together to create a vibrant and hearty dish that feels sophisticated but is easy to make.

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on for juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during cooking.
• Bell peppers: A mix of red, yellow, and green adds natural sweetness and a punch of color.
• Mushrooms: Cremini or white button mushrooms provide an earthy, meaty texture.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic enhances the sauce with aromatic depth.
• Crushed tomatoes: Creates a rich and slightly tangy base for the sauce.
• Onions: Sautéed to build sweetness and body in the sauce.
• Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, thyme, and basil infuses the dish with traditional Italian flavor.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps marry the flavors.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and deepens the sauce’s flavor complexity.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing out the flavors.

Variations for Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

One of the best parts about Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to adjust for dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or simply to keep things interesting, these variations will keep the dish fresh and exciting.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to bring some heat.
• Green veggie boost: Toss in zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Different protein: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even turkey for a leaner option.
• Wine-enhanced sauce: Add a splash of red or white wine during cooking for extra richness.
• Gluten-free twist: Serve over gluten-free pasta, polenta, or rice to keep the meal gluten-friendly.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and slicing the bell peppers into strips and cleaning the mushrooms with a damp cloth, then slice them evenly. Mince the garlic and chop the onion finely. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until the skin is golden brown and crisp, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to keep the juices locked in.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add onions and garlic. Cook until they become translucent and fragrant, roughly 3 minutes. Then add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian herbs along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

Return the browned chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce and vegetables. Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer gently while covered for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the lid, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Let the sauce reduce slightly with the lid off if you prefer a thicker consistency. Then, serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

• Use bone-in chicken: It stays juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts during slow cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When browning chicken, too many pieces can steam rather than sear.
• Add herbs fresh or dried: Both work well – dried herbs add deeper flavor during simmering, while fresh herbs can be sprinkled at the end for brightness.
• Low and slow simmer: Keep heat low to tenderize the chicken and meld flavors without drying the meat.
• Rest before serving: Letting the dish rest a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to harmonize.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Garnishes

Fresh basil or parsley leaves scattered on top add a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma, perfectly complementing the rich tomato sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, polenta, or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb option or spoon the cacciatore into individual ramekins for an elegant, family-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve maximum freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully: transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but since they are leaner, watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying them out.

Are bell peppers necessary for this recipe?

While bell peppers add sweetness and color, you can omit or substitute them with zucchini or eggplant depending on what you have available.

What can I serve with Chicken Cacciatore?

Common sides include pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or simple steamed rice, all of which soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free if you avoid serving it with gluten-containing sides like wheat pasta and use gluten-free broth if needed.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cacciatore with Bell Peppers and Mushrooms recipe is a true kitchen gem — packed with bold flavors, simple ingredients, and adaptable steps. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want a homemade meal that feels like a warm hug. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to comfort food!

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