Rustic Hunter's Chicken is a hearty, comforting dish that combines rich flavors with a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy dinner, offering a balance of juicy chicken and a savory tomato-based sauce.
Chicken is the star of the show, offering a tender and juicy protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors of the sauce. The mix of drumsticks, thighs, and breasts gives variety to each bite.
Olive oil helps in browning the chicken to give it a nice golden crust and acts as the base for sautéing the veggies.
Onion and garlic provide a savory base, adding depth and aroma to the sauce.
Button mushrooms absorb the sauce and add a meaty texture, while the red and yellow bell peppers contribute sweetness and color.
Red wine deglazes the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, and adds a rich, robust flavor to the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes are the heart of the sauce, bringing a lovely tangy sweetness that ties everything together.
Dried oregano and basil add a touch of herbal fragrance, enhancing the Italian-inspired flavors.
Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish just before serving, giving it a fresh finish.
Serve Rustic Hunter's Chicken over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Brown them in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden color. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Now, add the sliced button mushrooms and bell peppers. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.
Pour in the red wine, and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck to the skillet's bottom. This deglazing step is key as it captures all those rich flavors. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, along with the dried oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring each piece is nestled into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it well. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of color and freshness.
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