Chicken Cacciatore

Delicious Pollo alla Cacciatore Recipe with Mushrooms and Creamy Sauce

If you're looking for a savory recipe, full of flavors and with a rich history, Pollo alla Cacciatore is the perfect choice. This classic recipe, which combines simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques, will transport you to a rustic kitchen, where dishes are cooked with love and patience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g chicken thighs (ideally with bone for a richer taste)
- 3 medium onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 300 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or any preferred mushrooms)
- 150 g canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes in season)
- 150 ml white wine (a dry wine is preferable)
- 100 ml cream (optional but recommended for a creamy sauce)
- 100 ml water
- 50 ml olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and thyme (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step by step for a perfect result

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the onions and garlic. Chop the onions into small cubes and finely chop the garlic. These will form the flavorful base of your sauce. Clean the mushrooms and slice them so they cook evenly. Preparing the ingredients before you start cooking is essential for an efficient workflow.

Step 2: Seasoning the chicken thighs
Wash the chicken thighs under cold running water and dry them with a paper towel. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme over them. It's important to season the meat beforehand so the flavors can penetrate well.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This step will release the flavors and create the perfect base for the sauce.

Step 4: Adding the mushrooms and tomatoes
Once the onion has softened, add the mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for another 5-6 minutes until they are lightly browned. Then, add the canned tomatoes and mix well. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes so the juice reduces slightly and the flavors concentrate.

Step 5: Cooking the thighs
In a ceramic dish, place the chicken thighs (you can use an oven-safe dish). Pour the vegetable sauce over the thighs, then add the white wine and water. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 200°C for 40-45 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring tender and juicy meat.

Step 6: Finishing the dish
10 minutes before removing the dish from the oven, remove the foil and pour the cream over the thighs. Allow the dish to brown slightly, and the sauce to become creamy. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving and suggestions

Pollo alla Cacciatore is usually served with warm polenta, which absorbs the delicious sauce. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a crunchy contrast. If you want to indulge, a glass of refreshing white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and variations

- Meat variations: You can experiment with chicken breast or even pork, adjusting the cooking time.
- Adding vegetables: If you want to add more vitamins, you can include carrots or bell peppers in the vegetable mix.
- Spicier sauce: If you like spicy food, add a chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. Additionally, mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with other types of meat, but the cooking time may vary.
- Is this recipe healthy? Yes, it is a balanced recipe, rich in protein and vegetables.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, adding the meat and finishing cooking later.

Conclusion

This Pollo alla Cacciatore recipe is not just a delicious meal, but also an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills and bring joy to your loved ones. By trying this recipe, you will not only enjoy a traditional dish but also add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!