If you're in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish with a touch of rustic charm, look no further than this Rustic Chicken Hunter Style. A classic Italian-inspired dish, it's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying solo meal.
Chicken: Bone-in pieces add depth to the flavor and keep the meat juicy. You can use a mix of thighs and drumsticks for variety.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
Onion and green bell pepper: Provide a sweet and slightly peppery base to the dish.
Mushrooms: Bring an earthy note that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic: Essential for that aromatic punch.
Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth. Choose a wine you'd happily drink.
Crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce, giving it body and a touch of sweetness.
Chicken broth: Enhances the chicken flavor and adds moisture.
Oregano, basil, and bay leaf: Traditional Italian herbs that tie everything together.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Fresh parsley: A fresh, bright finish to the dish.
Serve over al dente pasta or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop. A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness beautifully.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Brown them well on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes. Don't rush this step—browning adds flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, toss in the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté these until the onions become translucent and everything smells amazing, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and pour in the wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the skillet—this is flavor gold. Let the wine simmer until reduced by half.
Now, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine well.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the sauce. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for about an hour. The chicken should be tender and the sauce rich and flavorful.
Just before serving, remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy!