Method:

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will let the other flavors shine through.

Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step locks in the flavors and gives your chicken a beautiful golden color.

Add the Aromatics: Once the chicken is browned, add the onion, garlic, and chili to the pan. Stir occasionally and let the aromatics soften for a couple of minutes.

Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pan. Let the wine cook off for a minute or two.

Add Tomato Paste & Herbs: Stir in the diluted tomato paste and add the rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, sage, and chopped parsley. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes.

Simmer the Chicken: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chicken stock (if using). Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, until it’s tender and the flavors have melded together.

Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, serve it hot with a slice of toasted country bread drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.

Tips and Variations:

Slow Cooker: For a hands-off version, after browning the chicken and adding the aromatics and wine, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 7-8 hours.

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a richer flavor.

Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with a bit of vegetable broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness.

Make it Spicy: For a spicier dish, add more red chili or a dash of hot sauce to taste.