Description
This One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Prepared in a single skillet, this recipe offers a delicious and easy weeknight dinner loaded with vibrant colors and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Sear the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown to lock in juices and develop flavor.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add vegetables and tomatoes: Stir in sliced red and green bell peppers along with the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Season and add liquids: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the mixture. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth to build a rich sauce.
- Simmer the dish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during seasoning.
- Serve over pasta, polenta, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Make sure to check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer for safety and best texture.
