Crazy busy over the last few weeks prepping for a virtual meeting at work, so time saving recipes are a must, particularly with two kids on the move and a chaotic house! This easy preparation for chicken cacciatore, known as "hunter's chicken" is perfect for a busy worknight when you need to get something on the table quickly. It’s great with a green salad or roasted broccoli on the side and a loaf of crusty bread. I prefer to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the preparation as opposed to whole chicken parts, which are more traditional. I find the skin becomes too moist, and that isn't very appealing to me.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
8 boneless and skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper, to season
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons minced garlic, (or 6 cloves)
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
10 oz mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup pitted green olives
½ tsp. dried thyme
2 tablespoons each freshly chopped parsley and basil plus more to garnish
1 teaspoon dried oregano
150 ml red wine or chicken broth
28 oz (820g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
7 oz (200g) Roma tomatoes, halved
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup instant polenta for serving
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a heavy cast iron pot. Sear chicken on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes each side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil to the pan. Sauté the onion until transparent, about 3-4 minutes. Add in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the peppers, mushrooms, and herbs; cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
4. Pour in the broth or wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook until reduced, about 2 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Roma tomatoes and chill flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Return chicken pieces to the skillet and continue to cook, allowing everything to simmer with a lid on tight for about 40 minutes. Add in olives and garnish with parsley and serve over polenta.
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