This Chicken Cacciatore features tender chicken thighs braised in a rich, tangy tomato, onion, and bell pepper sauce. This wholesome stew is delicious served over pasta or polenta for the coziest dinner.
Season the 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs with 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat a rimmed skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of the 2 tablespoons olive oilfry the 2 lbs of seasoned chicken thighs. Sear until golden on both sides, then set aside(it doesn't have to be cooked through for now).
Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan and saute the 1 medium onion (chopped) and 2 bell peppers (sliced) for 3-4 minutes. Add 4-6 cloves garlic, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakesand cook for 1 minute. Add the 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar and a splash of filtered water, and deglaze the pan by stirring all the way through the bottom.
Add 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with basil, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Stir to combine, and bring the sauce to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and add the seared chicken thighs.
Simmer the sauce together with the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. Make sure you occasionally stir through the bottom of the pan to avoid it from burning.
Once ready, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm, over some cooked spaghetti, if desired.
Notes
Storage & Reheating:
Storage: Allow the chicken to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the chicken cacciatore in a skillet over a medium-low heat with a splash of water, stirring occasionally, until piping hot throughout.