Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Chicken Cacciatore, as prepared by the Hairy Bikers, is a rustic, comforting Italian dish known for its deep, savory flavors. The name "Cacciatore" translates to "hunter’s style" in Italian, and it traditionally refers to dishes that were prepared by hunters with whatever ingredients they had on hand after a day in the field. The Hairy Bikers’ version stays true to this essence, offering a hearty meal that’s as delicious as it is filling.

In the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore, chicken thighs or drumsticks are simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce that includes aromatic vegetables such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers, as well as earthy herbs like oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. The addition of red wine and sometimes olives or capers provides a slightly tangy kick, while a splash of vinegar rounds out the dish’s flavor profile. Served alongside crusty bread or over pasta, it’s a perfect dish for gathering family and friends around the dinner table.

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks – Bone-in pieces work best, as they add richness and depth to the sauce during the long simmering process.
• Olive oil – For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Onions – A key aromatic to start the base of the sauce.
• Garlic – Adds a robust depth of flavor.
• Red bell peppers – These provide sweetness and color to the dish.
• Tomatoes – Fresh or canned tomatoes can be used for the base of the sauce. The Hairy Bikers typically use plum tomatoes for their richness.
• Red wine – Enhances the sauce’s depth and adds complexity.
• Chicken stock – To help build the sauce’s body.
• Black olives or capers – Optional, but they lend a briny, salty element that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Herbs – Fresh or dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaves bring the essence of the Mediterranean to the dish.
• Vinegar (red wine or balsamic) – A small amount adds acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning.

Equipment Needed

To successfully prepare the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore, the following kitchen tools and equipment will be necessary:

• Large, deep frying pan or Dutch oven – This is essential for browning the chicken and then simmering the sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan will allow even heat distribution, which is important for this slow-cooked dish.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring the ingredients without damaging your cookware.
• Sharp knife – To chop the vegetables and prepare the chicken.
• Chopping board – A solid surface for prepping your ingredients.
• Lid – To cover the pan or Dutch oven while the chicken simmers.
• Measuring spoons – For accurately measuring herbs and seasonings.
• Serving plate – To plate the dish once it’s cooked.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs or drumsticks generously with salt and pepper. Heat a little olive oil in a large, deep frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes. Add the red bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.

3. Deglaze the Pan:
   Pour in the red wine, stirring to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Build the Sauce:
   Add the canned or fresh tomatoes to the pan, along with the chicken stock, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Chicken:
   Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they’re submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you like, add olives or capers at this point to deepen the flavor.

6. Finishing Touches:
   Once the chicken is tender, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar for brightness. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few more minutes if you want it to thicken.

7. Serve:
   Serve the Chicken Cacciatore hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, alongside crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Use Bone-In Chicken:
   Bone-in chicken, particularly thighs or drumsticks, adds flavor and moisture to the dish. The bones help infuse the sauce with richness as the chicken cooks slowly.

2. Low and Slow Cooking:
   Don’t rush the cooking process. Simmering the chicken in the sauce for a longer period will result in more tender meat and a more flavorful sauce. Be patient for the best results.

3. Balancing Acidity:
   If your sauce tastes too acidic from the tomatoes or vinegar, balance it by adding a small amount of sugar or honey. This will mellow the sharpness without overpowering the savory notes.

4. Add Veggies:
   Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the sauce. These vegetables soak up the flavors of the dish and add extra depth.

5. Make it Ahead:
   Like many slow-cooked dishes, Chicken Cacciatore tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Prepare it ahead of time and reheat before serving.

6. Wine Pairing:
   Pair this dish with a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the flavors of the sauce.

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore is an easy-to-make, hearty, and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. By focusing on simple yet high-quality ingredients, this dish has a perfect balance of richness, acidity, and depth.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With a little patience and the right technique, you can master this rustic Italian classic and enjoy the warmth of its flavors for any occasion.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty, Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful sauce made of tomatoes, olives, onions, garlic, and herbs. While the traditional recipe is already delicious, there are several simple twists you can make to elevate the dish or give it a personal touch.

1. Swap the Chicken Parts: Instead of using chicken thighs, you can experiment with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Each cut brings its own flavor and texture, with breasts being leaner and quicker to cook, while thighs and drumsticks offer more juiciness and flavor.
2. Add Vegetables: Cacciatore traditionally contains onions and peppers, but you can throw in additional vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant. These vegetables will add both flavor and color to your dish. Roasting the vegetables before adding them to the sauce can intensify their natural sweetness.
3. Herb Variations: While rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves are the usual suspects, you can experiment with fresh basil or oregano for a slight change in flavor. If you prefer a stronger aromatic punch, try adding a sprig of fresh sage or even a little rosemary-infused oil to finish the dish.
4. Add Heat: If you like your dishes spicy, try incorporating a small amount of red chili flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili pepper. This will introduce a gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the richness of the sauce.
5. Enrich the Sauce: For an added depth of flavor, stir in a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar while the sauce is simmering. This will balance the sweetness of the tomatoes with a bit of acidity and complexity. For a richer texture, a spoonful of mascarpone cheese or a dash of cream can make the sauce silkier and more indulgent.
6. Alternative to Olives: While olives provide a nice salty bite, if you’re not a fan, you can swap them with capers or anchovies for a more assertive briny flavor. These alternatives will still give you that much-needed tangy kick without the use of olives.
7. Make it a One-Pot Wonder: If you want a hassle-free cleanup, try making the dish in a Dutch oven or large, ovenproof skillet. Searing the chicken on the stovetop and then transferring it to the oven to finish cooking in the sauce will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Chicken Cacciatore, with its rich sauce and tender chicken, makes for amazing leftovers. However, to ensure that your dish stays fresh and delicious, it’s important to store it properly.

1. Cooling: Let your Chicken Cacciatore cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria that can occur when hot food is placed directly into the fridge.
2. Storage Containers: Use airtight containers to store your leftovers. This helps to preserve the moisture in the chicken and prevents the sauce from drying out. Glass containers are preferable as they don’t absorb odors and stains the way plastic can.
3. Refrigeration: You can store Chicken Cacciatore in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date, so you remember when you cooked it.
4. Freezing: If you have a large batch and you won’t finish it within a few days, freezing is a great option. Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap the containers tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before sealing them in a freezer bag for extra protection.
5. Reheating: When reheating, make sure to do so thoroughly. If using a microwave, stir the dish occasionally to ensure even heating. On the stovetop, reheat gently on low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore?

Chicken Cacciatore is a flavorful, hearty dish, and pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your cacciatore:

1. Crusty Bread: A classic accompaniment to Chicken Cacciatore is crusty bread. The bread will soak up the savory sauce and add texture to the meal. A baguette, ciabatta, or even a rustic sourdough would be perfect.
2. Pasta: If you prefer a pasta-based side, spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle are excellent choices. The soft, pillowy pasta will absorb the rich tomato sauce, making each bite heavenly.
3. Polenta: A creamy, buttery polenta would complement the richness of the cacciatore sauce. You can prepare it soft and smooth or allow it to firm up and cut into slices for grilling or frying.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Pairing the chicken with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, will provide a nice contrast in texture and a bit of sweetness to balance out the savory, herby sauce.
5. Salad: A simple, refreshing salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach dressed with olive oil and lemon juice can cut through the richness of the cacciatore. A light vinaigrette will also complement the savory flavors of the dish.
6. Rice: For a lighter alternative to pasta or polenta, consider serving your cacciatore over a bed of rice. A fluffy white rice, or even a nutty brown rice, works well to absorb the sauce without overpowering the dish.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore is a versatile and flavorful dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences. Whether you decide to experiment with different cuts of chicken, introduce extra vegetables, or elevate the sauce with wine or cream, there are endless ways to put your own spin on this classic recipe. Plus, when stored and reheated properly, leftovers can be just as delicious the next day.

Pairing the dish with crusty bread, pasta, or roasted vegetables enhances the meal further, making it both satisfying and comforting. No matter how you prepare it, Chicken Cacciatore is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore Recipe?

The key ingredients for the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore recipe include chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on), onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes (either fresh or canned), black olives, dry white wine, chicken stock, fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme, and seasoning (salt and pepper). These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the tender chicken.

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore?

The total cooking time for the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes around 10-15 minutes of preparation time and about 1 hour for simmering the chicken and sauce to allow the flavors to develop. It’s important to cook the chicken slowly to ensure it becomes tender and fully infused with the sauce.

Can I Make Any Substitutions In The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore Recipe?

Yes, you can make several substitutions in the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Cacciatore recipe. For example, if you prefer a leaner cut of chicken, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, though the chicken may be slightly less tender.

You can also substitute dry white wine with chicken broth or a splash of vinegar if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of olives, they can be omitted or replaced with capers for a different flavor profile.