Hunter's Chicken Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Hunter's Chicken Delight is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken thighs with vibrant vegetables and a rich tomato sauce. It's a comforting meal perfect for any night of the week and a great way to bring some warmth and flavor to your table.

Ingredients for Hunter's Chicken Delight

Let's talk about what makes this dish sing! The star of the recipe is obviously the chicken thighs. Their dark meat stays juicy and flavorful even after a long cooking time. The all-purpose flour helps to create a light crust on the chicken, adding texture and richness to the sauce as it cooks.

Olive oil is our go-to for browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies, lending a subtle fruitiness. The onion and garlic form the aromatic base of the dish, while the green and red bell peppers add a pop of color and sweetness. Mushrooms contribute an earthy depth that rounds out the flavors.

The heart of the sauce is crushed tomatoes, which provide body and tang. Dry white wine adds acidity and complexity, while dried oregano and thyme bring a fragrant herbal note. A dash of red pepper flakes gives just a hint of heat, and the final touch of fresh basil leaves adds a bright, fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time slightly.
  • Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and depth.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more wine or chicken broth to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I use instead of white wine?
Chicken broth is a good substitute if you prefer to skip the wine.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove until heated through.

Hunter's Chicken Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by dredging your chicken thighs in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This will help give them a nice crust when they hit the pan. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them brown for about 5 minutes on each side. You're looking for a golden, crispy exterior. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they're fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This should take just a couple of minutes. Next, add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they've softened.

Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and white wine. Give it a good stir, then add the oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure each piece is nestled into the sauce.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 45 to 50 minutes. This slow cooking will allow the chicken to soak up all those wonderful flavors. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving to keep its vibrant flavor intact.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Full of robust, savory flavors that develop beautifully as it simmers.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find.
  • The slow simmer ensures tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken.
  • One-pot meal, so minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

2 lbs of bone-in chicken thighs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Dredge chicken thighs in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Brown chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
5. Add bell peppers and mushrooms, cook until softened.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and white wine, stir in oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
7. Return chicken to skillet, covering with sauce.
8. Simmer on low heat for 45-50 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
9. Stir in fresh basil before serving.

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