Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this chicken cacciatore will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the dish raw.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Rustic and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken cacciatore.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken thighs, peppers, and tomatoes are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 4 to 6
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2 to 2 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks, skin-on or skinless)
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1 large green bell pepper, seeded and sliced into thin strips
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1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
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1 (0.7- to 1-ounce) packet dry Italian salad dressing mix
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Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter for greasing the baking dish
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Optional: Salt and black pepper to taste (if your seasoning packet is low-sodium)
Ingredient Notes
Chicken: Use bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks.
Bell pepper: Use a large green bell pepper. Slice it into thin strips.
Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.
Italian dressing mix: Adds savory herb flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an oval glass baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. If desired, season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken and Peppers
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the greased dish. Scatter the sliced green bell pepper evenly over and around the chicken.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, stir together the crushed tomatoes and the dry Italian salad dressing mix until well combined.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken and peppers.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for another 20 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore
This rustic, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or linguine.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Polenta: Creamy polenta is a classic pairing.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Make It with Different Peppers: Use red or yellow bell peppers.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Herbs: Add oregano or basil.
Make It with Red Wine: Add a splash of red wine.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Italian dressing mix.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Pat the chicken dry. This helps the sauce adhere.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Let the chicken rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork chops or chicken breasts can be used.
Can I use a different pepper?
Yes. Red or yellow bell peppers can be used.
Can I use a different tomato product?
Yes. Tomato puree or diced tomatoes can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my chicken dry?
You overbaked it. Check the temperature early.
Why is my sauce thin?
The chicken released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
The Beauty of Chicken Cacciatore
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, rustic chicken dish that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This chicken cacciatore is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep peppers, tomatoes, and seasoning mix in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 20 to 30 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings