Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken thighs in tomato sauce with mascarpone – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Servings: 4

One of the most beloved dishes in home cooking is undoubtedly chicken. Chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor, and when cooked with a rich tomato and mascarpone sauce, the result is simply divine. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, ideal for a family dinner, yet elegant enough to impress even the most discerning guests.

A bit of history
Chicken thighs in tomato sauce, often referred to as "chicken cacciatore," were originally simple dishes cooked by farmers using fresh ingredients from their gardens. Over time, this recipe has evolved, and each culture has added its personal touch. Today, there is not just one recipe but numerous variations that reflect diverse culinary styles.

Ingredients needed
- 5 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for added flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of mascarpone (for a creamy and rich sauce)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (sliced thinly)
- 100 ml of red or white wine (to add depth to the sauce)
- 1 can (400g) of peeled tomatoes (preferably in their own juice)
- Fresh basil or 1 tablespoon of dried basil (for flavor)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and white pepper (to taste)
- Chili pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)

Step-by-step guide

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by lightly scoring the skin of the chicken thighs with a few small cuts. This will allow the spices and sauce to penetrate better. Season the thighs with salt, white pepper, and sweet paprika. The sweet paprika not only gives a nice color but also a pleasant, slightly smoky flavor.

2. Frying the chicken thighs
In a deep pan or skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down, allowing them to brown for about 5-7 minutes until golden. Then, turn them over and cook for another 5-7 minutes. This step will ensure a delicious crust and keep the meat juicy.

3. Preparing the sauce
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sliced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the fresh basil (or dried) and deglaze with white or red wine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the flavors.

4. Adding the tomatoes and spices
Add the peeled tomatoes to the sauce, along with white pepper, seasoning, and if you want a bit of heat, some chili pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finishing the dish
Once the sauce has simmered, add the 3 tablespoons of mascarpone and mix well until melted and incorporated into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Combining with the chicken
Place the fried chicken thighs into the prepared sauce, covering them completely. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, or you can transfer everything to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius to finish cooking.

Serving and sides
When the chicken thighs are cooked and the sauce is rich and aromatic, it’s time to serve! I recommend simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes or white rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. Pickles are an excellent choice to add a crunchy and tangy note, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.

Helpful tips and variations
- If you want to give it a more intense flavor, you can add green or black olives to the sauce.
- Substitute mascarpone with cooking cream if you prefer a lighter version.
- You can also use boneless chicken, cooking for a shorter time, for a quick meal.
- For a vegetarian dish, replace the chicken with large mushrooms.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken breast or even pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more chili pepper or even a splash of hot sauce.

3. What is the calorie count for one serving?
A serving of chicken thighs in tomato sauce with mascarpone has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the side.

Nutritional benefits
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain essential vitamins, such as B6 and B12, important for energy metabolism. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and mascarpone adds calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced dish.

This recipe for chicken thighs in tomato sauce with mascarpone is not only easy to make but also full of flavor, perfect for bringing the family together at the table. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite!