Advanced Guide to Authentic Italian Hunter’s Chicken Cacciatora

Take your culinary skills to the next level with this detailed, technical recipe for Italian Hunter's Chicken Stew, complete with modern wine pairing insights.

  • ( Scored 5 on 2 reviews )

Paolo:

I tried making this and it was easy and fun. Thanks!

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In-Depth Preparation of Traditional Chicken alla Cacciatora

Chicken "alla cacciatora," or hunter's chicken stew, stands out as a classic of Italian cuisine, prized for its hearty flavors and simple, effective cooking method. This dish is particularly well-suited for preparing in large quantities, as its taste becomes even more pronounced after a night of resting, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping and next-day enjoyment.
For the most satisfying results, consider doubling your batch to maximize both convenience and flavor.

Recommended Wine Pairings for Chicken alla Cacciatora

To elevate the tasting experience, pair this savory chicken dish with a medium-bodied Italian red wine that presents both acidity and refined tannins. Matured Chianti or a Chianti Classico with several years of aging is highly suitable. For a more adventurous pairing, opt for elegant red wines grown in volcanic regions, such as those from Mount Etna, known for their mineral-driven freshness. If you prefer rosé, select a structured and aromatic wine like Cerasuolo to bring a unique interplay of flavors to your meal.

 

Ingredients

play video recipe for 4 servings

Chicken Cacciatora ingredients

  • Garlic Cloves 1
  • Chicken 1
  • Canned tomato 300 grams
  • White wine 1 cup
  • Extra-virgin olive oil as needed
  • Salt as needed
  • Carrot 1
  • Celery (Stalk) 1
  • Yellow Onion 1
  • Fresh mixed herbs as needed

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Preparation

play video recipe

for 4 servings

Step

1

Of 3

Section and Brown the Chicken

Cut the chicken into eight even pieces. Preheat a large skillet and lightly coat the surface with extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken pieces in the pan and brown them evenly on all sides to develop a deep, golden crust. Remove the browned chicken pieces and set them aside.

Step

2

Of 3

Build the Flavor Base and Braise

Using a separate sauté pan, add a thin layer of olive oil and heat over medium. Add a finely diced mixture of onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are fragrant and lightly caramelized. Stir in aromatic herbs such as sage, bay leaf, and rosemary, then return the browned chicken to the pan. Season with salt to taste. Pour in white wine, allowing it to deglaze the pan and evaporate.

Incorporate canned whole or chopped tomatoes, reduce the heat, and cover. Let the mixture simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken and concentrate in flavor.

Step

3

Of 3

Serve and Present the Dish

When the sauce has reached your preferred consistency and the chicken is fork-tender, transfer portions to individual serving plates or bowls. Serve immediately, garnished as desired, to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor.

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Filippo Bartolotta

Filippo Bartolotta

...Great Italian Goodies!

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Reviews

P

Paolo Sunday 29th of March 2020

Simply delicious.

I tried making this and it was easy and fun. Thanks!

RyanGio Wednesday 8th of April 2020

You will lick your fingers!

This has become one of my favourite main courses

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