Irresistible Chicken Hunter’s Style

Chicken Hunter’s Style

Introduction

Chicken Hunter’s Style, also known as Cacciatore, is a classic Italian dish that brings warmth to any table. This rustic recipe full of flavor combines tender chicken with a rich sauce made from tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great way to enjoy comfort food that is both hearty and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy cooking techniques, Chicken Hunter’s Style allows the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables to shine. Additionally, it is a versatile dish that can be served with mashed potatoes or polenta, adapting to different tastes. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will make you feel accomplished and is sure to impress your guests.

How to Make Chicken Hunter’s Style

Ingredients:

4 bone-in chicken thighs (large, approx. 1 kg / 2 lb)
4 chicken drumsticks
½ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion (halved, finely sliced)
2 rosemary sprigs (about 15 cm/6" long, or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
2 bay leaves (preferably fresh, else dried)
3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
3 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste, optional)
250g / 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
2 red capsicum (sliced about 8 mm thick)
⅓ cup tomato paste
¾ cup pinot noir (or other dry red wine)
2 cups chicken stock or broth (low sodium)
400g / 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
16 whole kalamata olives (pitted and drained)
¼ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
Mashed potatoes or polenta
Finely chopped parsley (for sprinkling, optional)

Directions:

Season the Chicken: Spread the chicken on a tray and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Brown the Chicken: Heat oil in a large, deep pan over high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for 1 minute, then take the chicken out and place it on the tray. Brown the drumsticks for about 3 minutes, then remove them too.
Cook the Onion and Herbs: Discard all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the pan. Lower the heat to medium, add the onion, rosemary, bay leaves, and oregano. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion softens.
Add Garlic and Anchovies: Clear a space in the pan, add anchovies and garlic, and cook until the garlic is light golden. Stir it all together.
Vegetables and Tomato Paste: Increase the heat to high, adding mushrooms and capsicum. Let it soften, then add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the wine and let it reduce by 75%. Add chicken stock, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.
Simmer the Chicken: Place the chicken back in the pan (skin side up) and pour in any juices from the tray. Once it simmers, cover and cook for 20 minutes. Add olives and simmer for another 10 minutes without a lid.
Serve: Serve the chicken atop creamy mashed potatoes or polenta, garnished with parsley if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Hunter’s Style

Chicken Hunter’s Style is best served hot alongside a generous helping of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. You can garnish it with finely chopped parsley for an appealing presentation. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

How to Store Chicken Hunter’s Style

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in suitable containers for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Chicken Hunter’s Style

Browning the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is well-browned for deep flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Let It Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to develop rich flavors.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the recipe for different flavors and textures. If you prefer, substitute chicken with rabbit for a more traditional hunter’s dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is this dish spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy. However, you can add some chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

3. Can I replace red wine with something else?
Yes, you can use chicken broth or grape juice as a non-alcoholic alternative. However, it may slightly change the flavor.

Enjoy making and savoring Chicken Hunter’s Style with your family and friends!