Classic Italian Chicken Vesuvio Recipe

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound red potatoes, quartered
5 garlic cloves, peeled
3/4 cup dry white wine
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then dust with a light coating of flour.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the quartered potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic cloves and cook for another 1 minute.
Pour the wine into the skillet, then add the chicken broth, oregano, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the oven and add the peas and butter, stirring until the butter is melted.
Return the skillet to the oven and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, about 15 more minutes.
Sprinkle the chicken and potatoes with chopped parsley before serving.

Tools for making

Skillet - You will need a large oven-safe skillet to sear the chicken and cook the dish.
Oven - Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to cook the Chicken Vesuvio.
Cutting board - Use a cutting board to quarter the red potatoes.
Knife - You will need a knife to chop parsley, peel garlic cloves, and prepare other ingredients.
Measuring spoons - Use measuring spoons to accurately measure salt, pepper, oregano, and rosemary.
Measuring cups - You will need measuring cups to measure dry white wine, chicken broth, and flour.
Spatula - A spatula will be useful for flipping the chicken while searing.
Stirring spoon - Use a stirring spoon to mix the ingredients in the skillet.
Oven mitts - Oven mitts or potholders will be necessary to handle the hot skillet when removing it from the oven.

Recipe variations

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for a leaner option.
Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Try using different herbs and spices such as thyme, basil, or paprika to customize the flavor.
Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the potatoes for an earthy twist.
Make it vegetarian by substituting chicken with firm tofu or seitan.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor.
For a spicier version, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the chicken before cooking.
Experiment with different types of wine, such as red wine or sherry, to enhance the depth of flavor.
Include other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
If you prefer a crispy crust, you can pan-fry the chicken in additional oil before transferring to the oven.

Recipe overview

Chicken Vesuvio is a flavorful and satisfying dish that's sure to impress at any dinner table. This recipe, which originates from Italy, features juicy, seared chicken thighs and hearty red potatoes cooked in a aromatic mixture of garlic, white wine, and herbs. The addition of peas adds a pop of color and a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements of the dish. This recipe is relatively straightforward, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Despite its simplicity, Chicken Vesuvio is packed full of flavor. The chicken is first seared to create a golden, crispy skin, then baked with the potatoes and garlic in a white wine and chicken broth mixture. This ensures that the chicken is moist and tender, while the potatoes become perfectly cooked and infused with the delicious flavors of the sauce. The final touch of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of freshness but also beautifully complements the robust flavors of this dish. Get ready for a culinary voyage to Italy with this delightful Chicken Vesuvio recipe. Enjoy!

Common questions

How long does it take to make Chicken Vesuvio?
The total cooking time for Chicken Vesuvio is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken thighs may cook faster.
What can I use as a substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. The general rule of thumb is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Certainly! You can add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the recipe to customize it to your liking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it is best to serve Chicken Vesuvio immediately after cooking, you can prepare the dish a few hours in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?
No, it is not necessary to use a cast iron skillet. You can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish for this recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Oven-safe skillet - A skillet that can safely be used in the oven at high temperatures.
Large mixing bowl - A bowl large enough to mix the flour and seasonings for coating the chicken.
Tongs - Useful for flipping the chicken and removing it from the skillet.
Spatula - Helps with stirring and flipping the potatoes.
Chef's knife - Used for cutting the potatoes and chopping parsley.
Cutting board - Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting ingredients.
Measuring spoons - For precise measurement of salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
Measuring cups - Use them to measure the wine, chicken broth, and frozen peas.
Whisk - Helps to incorporate the flour with the seasoning for coating the chicken.
Oven mitts - Protects your hands when handling the hot skillet.

Origin stories

Chicken Vesuvio hails from the Windy City of Chicago, USA, despite its Italian sounding name. It’s a beloved local specialty that isn’t really known outside of the Chicago metropolitan area. Surprisingly, this dish didn't originate from Italy, but it’s so deeply tied to the city's Italian-American community that many outsiders often mistake it as a traditional Italian recipe. The dish is known for its hearty flavors that marry the rustic simplicity of Italian cooking with the practicality of Midwestern cuisine. Its name is believed to have been coined by restaurants in Chicago’s Italian-American neighborhoods, probably named after Mount Vesuvius, Italy's famous and historically significant volcano. The bold, explosive flavors of the dish mirror the fiery nature of its namesake, offering a unique culinary experience right in the heart of America's Midwest.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.