Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian dish that brings together tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs for a hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both comforting and full of flavor.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore?
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Cacciatore is an Italian-inspired dish that translates to “hunter’s stew.” It’s a hearty, rustic meal made with tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce of tomatoes, onions, and herbs. This flavorful dish is often served over pasta or alongside crusty bread, making it a comforting and satisfying option for any meal.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: A rich tomato sauce infused with herbs and garlic makes every bite delicious.
- Comfort food at its best: This hearty stew is warm and satisfying, ideal for cozy nights.
- Easy to make: With straightforward steps, it’s accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore
- Chicken thighs and drumsticks (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs): Bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
- Garlic (4 cloves): Finely chopped, adds depth to the sauce.
- Onions (2 medium): Sliced thinly, providing sweetness to the dish.
- Bell peppers (2 large): Choose red and yellow for color and flavor.
- Mushrooms (200g / 7 oz): Sliced, adding an earthy note.
- Canned tomatoes (800g / 28 oz): Crushed, creating a rich sauce base.
- Red wine (200ml / 7 fl oz): Enhances the sauce with depth and acidity.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme (1 sprig each): Aromatic herbs that elevate the flavor.
- Bay leaves (2): Adds a subtle, savory note.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Chopped, for a burst of freshness.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin side down, and cook until golden brown. Flip and brown the other side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the bell peppers and mushrooms: Stir in the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the wine: Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half.
- Add the tomatoes and herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the chicken
- Return the chicken: Place the browned chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the skillet and simmer for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and enjoy: Remove the bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore?
- Whole Grain Pasta: Pair the chicken cacciatore with whole grain pasta to add fiber and create a more balanced meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus to add a light, nutritious side.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting option, serve with mashed potatoes, preferably made with a little olive oil or low-fat milk to keep it healthy.
- Garlic Bread: A side of whole grain or whole wheat garlic bread can be a great way to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the cacciatore.
- Polenta: Creamy or grilled polenta can be a delightful and hearty side that pairs well with the sauce.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality tomatoes make a difference.
- Don’t rush the browning: Properly browning the chicken adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore
- Add olives: Stir in black olives for a briny twist.
- Swap the wine: Use white wine instead of red for a lighter sauce.
- Go spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Include other veggies: Zucchini or eggplant work well in this dish.
- Use chicken breasts: If you prefer, boneless chicken breasts can replace thighs.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Label the containers: Always label with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Cool before storing: Let the dish cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Cacciatore Leftovers?
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Reheat in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
- Add liquid: If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth.
- Check for seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning after reheating.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Cacciatore Healthier?
- Use Skinless Chicken: Choose skinless chicken thighs or breasts to reduce the fat content.
- Increase the Vegetables: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra fiber and nutrients.
- Limit the Olive Oil: Use less olive oil than the recipe calls for, or consider using a cooking spray to reduce fat without losing flavor.
- Use Whole Grain Pasta: Serve the dish with whole grain pasta or a side of whole grains for added fiber and nutrition.
- Reduce the Salt: Cut down on the amount of salt or use a low-sodium broth to make the dish lower in sodium.
- Opt for Fresh Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes or a low-sodium canned variety to decrease the amount of added salt in the dish.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
How long does Chicken Cacciatore take to cook?
Chicken Cacciatore typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to cook. This includes time for browning the chicken, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering the dish to perfection.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Chicken Cacciatore?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts may cook faster, so be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What is the best side dish to serve with Chicken Cacciatore?
The best side dishes for Chicken Cacciatore include al dente pasta, creamy polenta, or buttery mashed potatoes. These options soak up the rich sauce and complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I make Chicken Cacciatore ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Cacciatore can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent dish for meal prep or entertaining.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Cacciatore is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with bold flavors. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy it fresh, or savor the leftovers—either way, it’s a meal that satisfies.