Description
A rustic and comforting Italian chicken stew made with tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, mushrooms, and herbs. Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup pitted green or black olives (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Brown the chicken on both sides until golden, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth with vinegar, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and olives (if using).
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling pieces into the sauce.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 45–60 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
Chicken breasts can be substituted but reduce simmering time to prevent overcooking.
Add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or celery for extra nutrition.
For a spicier version, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Can be served over pasta, rice, or polenta, or with crusty bread.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
