Rustic Italian Comfort: How to Make Classic Pollo alla Cacciatora

Pollo alla Cacciatora — or Hunter’s Style Chicken — is a hearty, rustic Italian dish rooted in tradition. Braised in a rich tomato, wine, and herb sauce, this comforting classic is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for chilly nights or Sunday dinners, it’s a one-pot wonder that tastes even better the next day.

🥕 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

8 bone-in, skin-on Chicken Thighs (or legs)
Salt & Black Pepper to taste
3 tbsp Olive Oil
1 medium Onion, sliced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 Carrot, finely diced
1 Celery stalk, finely diced
1 Bell Pepper, sliced (optional)
1 cup Dry White Wine
1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes
1/2 cup Chicken Broth
1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
1 tsp Fresh Rosemary (or dried)
1 Bay Leaf
1/3 cup Kalamata or Black Olives (optional)
Fresh Basil or Parsley, for garnish

🍲 Instructions

Sear the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides (about 5 minutes per side), then transfer to a plate.

Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5–6 minutes.

Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Build the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, rosemary, and bay leaf. Return chicken to the pan and bring to a simmer.

Braise to Perfection: Cover and cook on low heat for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich. Stir in olives if using during the last 10 minutes.

Serve: Remove bay leaf and discard. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve over polenta, pasta, or crusty bread.

📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Make the Perfect Pollo alla Cacciatora

🍳 Cast Iron Dutch Oven – Perfect for searing chicken and slow-simmering your sauce all in one pot.
🔪 Chef’s Knife – For precision slicing of vegetables and herbs.
🧄 Garlic Press – Speed up prep while maximizing garlic flavor.
🍷 Dry White Cooking Wine – Adds bright acidity and depth to your sauce.
🍅 San Marzano Crushed Tomatoes – The authentic, rich tomato base every classic needs.
🌿 Dried Rosemary & Bay Leaves Set – Infuse your sauce with traditional herb notes.
🫒 Kalamata Olives – For that briny richness to finish your dish.
🥄 Wooden Spoon Set – Gentle on cookware and perfect for stirring rustic sauces.

Pollo alla Cacciatora is proof that comfort food can still feel elegant. Pair with a glass of Chianti, and you’ve got yourself an Italian countryside experience at home.