Oven-Baked Chicken Cacciatore

Transform your weeknight dinner with this unbelievably easy and incredibly flavorful **Oven Baked Chicken Cacciatore**. This classic Italian “hunter-style” dish features succulent chicken thighs simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce brimming with bell peppers, mushrooms, and savory herbs. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy evenings. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite. Its rustic charm and deep flavors make it feel like a special occasion meal, yet its simple preparation means it’s accessible any day of the week.

For another delicious and kid-approved chicken thigh recipe, don’t miss our slow cooker chicken thighs, offering tender results with even less hands-on time.

Why You’ll Adore This Oven Baked Chicken Cacciatore

Our oven-baked chicken cacciatore is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire:

• Unbeatable Comfort Food: On chilly evenings, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, stew-like sauce to warm you from the inside out. This cacciatore delivers a rich, thick, and deeply flavorful sauce that is incredibly satisfying and comforting.
• Flavor-Packed Perfection: The cacciatore sauce is truly lick-worthy, boasting layers of savory tomato, aromatic herbs, and tender vegetables. It’s perfectly designed to cling to pasta, creating a mouthwatering symphony of tastes in every bite.
• Effortless Oven Preparation: While classic cacciatore often involves stovetop simmering, our oven-baked method significantly reduces active cooking time. This means less standing over the stove and more time for you! You have the option to simply ‘dump and bake,’ but for an extra layer of flavor, we highly recommend taking an additional 10 minutes to sauté the vegetables first. This small step makes a big difference.
• Perfectly Thick Sauce (Optional): Dredging the chicken pieces in flour before browning creates a slightly thicker, more luxurious sauce that many find incredibly tasty. If you prefer to avoid flour or reduce carbs, feel free to skip this step; the sauce will still be delicious, just a bit thinner.
• Family-Friendly and Versatile: Chicken thighs are a universally loved cut, making this a go-to dish for families. The robust flavors appeal to all ages, and its versatility allows for various serving options to please any palate.
• Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly: This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! You can prepare it in advance, or freeze leftovers for quick, delicious meals later, making your weeknights even smoother.

Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Cacciatore

Crafting the perfect chicken cacciatore begins with selecting fresh, quality ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need to create this comforting Italian masterpiece. The full measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Ingredient Notes and Expert Tips

• Chicken: While we prefer skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for their incredible flavor and moist texture, you can absolutely use any chicken cut you like. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs will also work, but bone-in often yields a richer taste to the sauce. Adjust baking time accordingly for different cuts.
• Herbs: Dried oregano is specified in the recipe for convenience and consistent flavor. However, if you have fresh herbs on hand, they will elevate the dish beautifully. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Consider fresh rosemary or thyme for an added aromatic touch.
• Capers and Olives: These ingredients, though optional, are highly recommended for their distinctive salty, briny notes that beautifully complement the rich tomato sauce. Green olives (like Castelvetrano or Manzanilla) and briny capers add a layer of authentic Italian flavor that truly makes the dish sing.
• Vinegar: Red wine vinegar contributes a lovely tang and depth to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes. White vinegar can be used as a suitable substitute if red wine vinegar is unavailable.
• Bell Peppers: Using a mix of yellow and red bell peppers not only adds a vibrant visual appeal but also introduces a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the dish. Green bell peppers can be used for a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor.
• Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms add an earthy depth and delightful texture. They absorb the flavors of the sauce wonderfully.

Oven Baked Chicken Cacciatore: Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this delicious oven-baked chicken cacciatore is surprisingly simple, especially when you follow these easy steps. While the detailed instructions are in the recipe card below, here’s an overview to guide you through the process, ensuring a perfect meal every time.

Prepping and Browning the Chicken:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s ready for baking once your dish is assembled.
2. Season the Chicken: Generously season your chicken thighs on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for building flavor.
3. Prepare for Searing: In a large, non-stick skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking.
4. Dredge in Flour (Optional): Lightly dredge each seasoned chicken piece in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This step helps create a thicker sauce later and promotes a beautiful golden-brown crust. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Brown the Chicken: Carefully place the floured chicken thighs, skin-side down first, into the hot skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. This browning step is vital for developing rich flavor and a lovely texture. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sautéing the Vegetables:

1. Sauté Mushrooms: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, the leftover chicken bits add flavor!), add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their moisture.
2. Add Onion: Stir in the finely chopped small onion and continue to cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant and translucent.
3. Introduce Aromatics and Peppers: Add the crushed garlic and sliced bell peppers (yellow and red). Mix everything together and cook for just about 30-60 seconds to allow the garlic to become fragrant and the peppers to slightly soften without losing their crunch entirely. Turn off the heat.
4. Light Seasoning: Add a small pinch of salt to the vegetables to enhance their natural flavors.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large 13×9 inch baking dish or oven-safe casserole, combine the crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, vinegar (red or white wine vinegar), and dried oregano. If using capers, stir them in now. Whisk gently to combine all ingredients.
2. Add Sautéed Vegetables: Fold the sautéed mushroom and vegetable mixture into the tomato sauce in the baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
3. Nestle the Chicken: Carefully nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged. If you are using green olives, add them around the chicken pieces at this stage.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
5. Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly, slightly reduced, and the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite side dish.

💡 Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Cacciatore

• Don’t Skip the Sauté: While it’s tempting to simply combine everything and bake (the “dump and bake” option), investing an extra 5-10 minutes to sauté the vegetables and brown the chicken profoundly enhances the flavor profile of your cacciatore. Browning creates a deeper, richer taste, and sautéing vegetables softens them and brings out their sweetness.
• Ensure Proper Cooking Temperature: Baking times can vary considerably based on your individual oven and the size and thickness of your chicken cuts. To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken and food safety, always use a reliable meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone, until it registers an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Make it in Your Slow Cooker: For an even more hands-off approach, convert this recipe for your slow cooker. Follow the initial steps of browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables in a separate pan (or directly in your slow cooker if it has a sear function). Then, add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
• Instant Pot Method: This recipe adapts beautifully to the Instant Pot. Use the ‘Sauté’ function to brown the chicken and then sauté the vegetables, removing the chicken briefly. Add all other sauce ingredients over the vegetables, then nestle the chicken back in. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. This yields incredibly tender chicken and a rich sauce in a fraction of the time.
• Storing Leftovers: Cooked chicken cacciatore keeps wonderfully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes exceptionally well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
• Prepare Ahead for Easy Meals: To streamline your cooking on a busy day, you can prepare this dish in advance. Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed. Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, simply pop it into the preheated oven and follow the baking instructions. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thin, you can uncover the dish for the last 15-20 minutes of baking to allow some liquid to evaporate and the sauce to thicken naturally. Alternatively, after baking, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce it further. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.

💬 Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered

👩‍🍳 Delicious Variations to Try

One of the beauties of chicken cacciatore is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore: As mentioned in our tips, this recipe is perfectly suited for a slow cooker. Follow the initial searing and sautéing steps for the best flavor, then transfer all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is fall-apart tender. It’s a fantastic “set it and forget it” option for busy days.
• Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore: Achieve tender chicken and a rich sauce in a fraction of the time with your Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and vegetables. Then, combine all ingredients and pressure cook on high for 25 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. This is ideal when you need a quick, hearty meal.
• Spicier Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and bell peppers. You can also garnish with extra flakes before serving.
• Herb Variations: While oregano is classic, feel free to add other Italian herbs. Fresh or dried basil, rosemary, or thyme would also be delightful additions, enhancing the aromatic complexity of the sauce.
• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by incorporating more vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, zucchini, or even small chunks of potato can be added along with the onions and peppers.
• Cheesy Finish: For an extra decadent touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the cacciatore just before serving. The cheese will melt slightly into the warm sauce, adding a wonderful savory depth.

🍽️ Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken cacciatore is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of our favorite recommendations to complete your meal:

• Pasta: Classic companions! Serve over your favorite pasta such as spaghetti, tagliatelle, fettuccine, or penne. The rich sauce clings perfectly to the noodles.
• Rice: For a lighter option, a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice beautifully soaks up the savory sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are an ultimate comfort pairing, offering a smooth contrast to the rustic sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a loaf of warm, crusty bread or focaccia for dipping into that incredible sauce! It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• Polenta: For an authentic Italian experience, serve your cacciatore over soft, creamy polenta.
• Healthier Alternatives: For a lighter, low-carb meal, consider serving it over spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or cauliflower rice.
• Gnocchi: Pillowy potato gnocchi makes for a satisfying and hearty alternative to pasta.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich and savory cacciatore.

📣 More Delicious Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this flavorful chicken cacciatore, be sure to explore these other fantastic chicken recipes:

• Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs: Create a mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or lazy weekends with minimal effort.
• Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast: Enjoy delicious and cheesy stuffed chicken breast, tender and so easy to make right in your air fryer.
• Chicken Kabsa: Savor the exotic flavors of the Middle East in this easy and tasty Saudi Chicken Kabsa recipe.
• Chicken and Yellow Rice with Peas: This chicken and yellow rice recipe is easy to prepare and tastes great, perfect for dinner parties or casual family gatherings.
• Crock Pot Cornish Hens: Here’s the best Cornish hen recipe that the whole family will love, making a hearty meal suitable for special occasions or weeknights.
• Bruschetta Chicken Pizza: Craving a quick and easy meal with delicious Italian flavors? This easy Bruschetta Pizza with chicken has it all.

If you loved this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and tell us about your experience! Thank you!

Oven Baked Chicken Cacciatore

Easy-to-make chicken cacciatore, baked to perfection in the oven. Features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with vibrant bell peppers, savory green olives, and briny capers, creating a comforting family meal.

4.50 from 8 votes

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Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
Italian

Diet:
Halal

Prep Time:
10 minutes minutes

Cook Time:
50 minutes minutes

Servings:
5 people

Calories:
585kcal

Author:
Amira

Ingredients

• ▢ 4 Tablespoons olive oil divided
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 2 pounds (907g) Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 5 pieces)
• ▢ 1 small onion finely chopped
• ▢ ½ pound mushrooms sliced (cremini or button)
• ▢ 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
• ▢ 1 red bell pepper sliced
• ▢ 5 garlic cloves crushed
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ▢ 1 cup chicken broth
• ▢ 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
• ▢ 1 can (28oz/820g) crushed tomatoes

Optional Ingredients:

• ▢ ¼ cup green olives drained
• ▢ ¼ cup capers
• ▢ Fresh parsley for garnishing
• ▢ Red pepper flakes for heat, optional

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
• Heat Oil: In a large, non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Brown Chicken: Lightly dredge chicken pieces in flour (if using), shaking off excess. Place chicken in the hot skillet, skin-side down first, and sear for 5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove chicken and set aside.
• Sauté Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the same skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cook Onion: Add the chopped onions and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add Garlic and Peppers: Stir in the crushed garlic and sliced bell peppers. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring everything together.
• Season Vegetables: Add a small pinch of salt to the sautéed vegetables, then turn off the heat.
• Prepare Sauce: In a 13×9 inch baking dish, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, vinegar, and oregano. Stir in capers if you are using them.
• Combine Ingredients: Mix the sautéed vegetables into the tomato sauce. Then, nestle the browned chicken thighs into the sauce.
• First Bake: Add green olives (if using). Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Final Bake: Remove the cover and continue to bake for another 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly reduced, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
• Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes and serve warm with pasta or your preferred side.

Notes

• You can use any chicken cut you like. Boneless chicken can also be used, but the flavor is often much better with bone-in chicken. Adjust baking times accordingly for different cuts.
• You can skip sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken and simply throw everything together in your casserole dish then bake. However, if you have an extra 5-10 minutes, these steps significantly add to the depth of flavor.
• Baking times vary according to your oven and the size of the chicken cut used. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Slow Cooker Instructions: Proceed with the recipe as is (browning chicken and sautéing vegetables is recommended). Instead of putting everything in a baking dish, add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is tender.
• Instant Pot Instructions: Set the Instant Pot to sauté and brown chicken. Remove chicken and sauté vegetables. Add all other ingredients over the vegetables and return the chicken to the pot. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
• Make Ahead: Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed. Assemble all components in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the total cooking time as it will be starting from a cold temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories:
585
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
17
g

|

Protein:
34
g

|

Fat:
43
g

|

Saturated Fat:
10
g

|

Cholesterol:
178
mg

|

Sodium:
997
mg

|

Potassium:
939
mg

|

Fiber:
4
g

|

Sugar:
7
g

|

Vitamin A:
1138
IU

|

Vitamin C:
88
mg

|

Calcium:
68
mg

|

Iron:
3
mg

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