Lemon Herb Chicken Cacciatore

Name: Lemon Herb Chicken Cacciatore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup white wine; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 45 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Lemon Herb Chicken Cacciatore is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite. This dish combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory depth of herbs, making it a perfect choice for any season. It's a one-pan wonder that brings vibrant flavors to your table with minimal fuss.

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Ingredients for Lemon Herb Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken thighs are the heart of this dish, providing richness and flavor that only dark meat can offer. Olive oil helps to brown the chicken and adds a subtle fruitiness. Onion and garlic lay the aromatic foundation, while bell pepper introduces a sweet crunch. Cherry tomatoes add juiciness and a touch of acidity. The chicken broth and white wine create a savory sauce, enhanced by the vibrant punch of lemon juice and zest. Dried oregano and thyme lend earthy notes, while fresh basil finishes the dish with a pop of freshness.

Tips & Tricks

For an even richer flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to at least 165°F internally.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of creamy polenta or a simple risotto. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of arugula or alongside roasted vegetables. A crusty piece of bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?: Yes, but keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.
What can I substitute for white wine?: You can use additional chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang.
How long can I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Lemon Herb Chicken Cacciatore Recipe Walkthrough

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While that's warming up, season the chicken thighs with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken in the skillet, letting each side brown for about 5 minutes. This step is key for locking in flavor, so be patient and resist the urge to move them around too soon. Once the chicken is beautifully browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Into the same skillet, toss the sliced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté them for a few minutes until they're softened and the kitchen smells heavenly. Now, add in the cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine, and both the lemon juice and zest. Stir everything together to combine the flavors, then nestle the chicken back into the skillet.

Sprinkle the top with oregano and thyme, then cover the skillet. Let it all simmer gently on low heat for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and soak up all those incredible flavors. Before serving, scatter the chopped fresh basil over the top for a fresh finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to make with just one skillet, simplifying cleanup.
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of citrus.
Uses common ingredients you likely already have.
Appeals to both picky eaters and gourmet food lovers alike.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup white wine

1 lemon, juiced and zested

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.

3. Cook chicken until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.

4. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.

5. Add cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet. Stir to combine.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet, sprinkle with oregano and thyme, and cover.

7. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.

8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

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