Food Network Scholar: Chicken Cacciatore with Cremini Mushrooms

Television Feasts

I am a home cook who backyard gardens and has a serious closet addiction to the Food Network. I envision visiting the world in my own kitchen.

From Julia to Giada, I am a bi-product of the quirky world of anything food television. At age 10 I wanted to lunch with Julia; at 12 I thought sitting at Graham Kerr's table would be bliss; in college I was a diligent voyeur student of Jeff Smith's; and as a newlywed I envisioned myself being Martha. Then the sky opened up and violin music played in the background when I discovered an entire family of food shows on the blossoming food network. Twenty years later I am still a home chef with a backyard garden, yet in my head I am a trained chef who has eaten her way around the world, tasted all things exotic, competed in many challenges, judged the best of the best, and have a circle of friends which includes Emeril, Bobby, Rachael and more. I like to learn and challenge myself simply for the pleasure of all things food. I am a student of the University of Food Network and my textbooks, exams and extra-curricular activities all stem from channel 39.

Monday, June 2, 2014

Chicken Cacciatore with Cremini Mushrooms

I chose a recipe tonight that I could not only make for us, but, would be easily transported and made for my daughter's crew too. Chicken thighs are filled with flavor and always a great value for your dollar. All too often we are quick to think boneless, skinless breasts are the way to go; however, don't shy away from these less costly cuts with more flavor. The chicken thighs work well with this simple, hearty tomato sauce. The wine gives it a deep flavor and using good oregano always raises the bar in any recipe. Tip: When making a crock pot meal with a sauce, add a few tablespoons of minute tapioca. It will give your sauce some body and won't be as runny. About 10 minutes prep was all this took and I came home to a delicious aroma when I walked through the door. Serve with any pasta or even polenta.

Chicken Cacciatore with Cremini Mushrooms
printable recipe

2 onions, chopped
1/4 c. tomato paste
2 T. olive oil
6 garlic cloves (yes 6!), minced
2 T. minced fresh oregano or 2 tsp. dry
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 lb. cremini mushrooms, trimmed and halved or quartered if large
1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 c. chicken stock
1/2 c. dry red wine
2 T. Minute tapioca
6-8 trimmed and skinned bone-in chicken thighs

In a small microwaveable bowl, mix together the onions, tomato paste, oil, garlic, oregano and red pepper. Microwave until onions are soft, about 4 minutes, stir occasionally. Add to a 5 qt. crock pot.