Delicious Chicken Vesuvio: 1 Amazing Recipe

Name: Delicious Chicken Vesuvio: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces; 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas

by Manar Jota

October 6, 2025

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Chicken Vesuvio has been a beloved Chicago classic for generations, and I’m so excited to share my version with you. This dish, a true taste of Italian-American heritage, features tender, pan-seared chicken nestled alongside crispy, golden potatoes, all bathed in a wonderfully aromatic garlic and white wine sauce. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with incredible smells and brings people to the table. Making an authentic Chicken Vesuvio feels like a special occasion, but I’ve found it’s surprisingly simple enough for any night of the week. Get ready to experience the magic of Chicken alla Vesuviana right in your own kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Vesuvio Recipe

This isn’t just another chicken dinner; it’s an experience! You’ll adore this recipe because:

It’s incredibly flavorful, boasting a rich garlic and white wine sauce.
The combination of tender chicken and crispy potatoes is simply divine.
You get an easy Chicken Vesuvio that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
The potatoes are a star here, making it a satisfying Chicken Vesuvio with potatoes dish.
It looks and tastes gourmet, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
The aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks is pure comfort.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian-American comfort food.

Essential Chicken Vesuvio Ingredients

Gathering these simple components is the first step to an amazing Chicken Vesuvio. Here’s what you’ll need for this classic Italian-American dish:

2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces – This is crucial for that authentic flavor and crispy skin.
1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks – Yukon Golds get wonderfully tender and slightly crispy.
6 cloves garlic, minced – Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s a star in Chicken Vesuvio garlic dishes!
1/2 cup dry white wine – Something like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works perfectly.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce.
1/4 cup olive oil – Divided for searing and roasting.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For a pop of freshness at the end.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian herb.
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas – Add them at the very end for a touch of color and sweetness.

How to Make Authentic Chicken Vesuvio

Let’s dive into creating this fantastic Italian-American classic! Follow these steps for a truly memorable meal.

Delicious Chicken Vesuvio: 1 Amazing Recipe - Chicken Vesuvio - additional detail

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and the potatoes get that perfect crisp.
Step 2: On a large baking sheet, toss the 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and black pepper. Roast them for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be tender inside and developing a lovely golden-brown edge.
Step 3: While those potatoes are getting happy in the oven, season your 2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces really well with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 4: Now for the sear! Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot skillet, skin-side down. Let them sear undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is beautifully golden brown and crisp. Flip and sear the other side for another 5-7 minutes. This step is key to a great pan-seared Chicken Vesuvio. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for a moment.
Step 5: Lower the heat slightly to medium. Add the 6 cloves garlic, minced to the skillet. Sauté for just about 1 minute until you can really smell that wonderful garlicky aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 6: Pour in the 1/2 cup dry white wine followed by the 1/2 cup chicken broth. As it simmers, use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – that’s where so much flavor hides! For more information on deglazing, check out this guide.
Step 7: Stir in the 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
Step 8: Gently nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, arranging them amongst the sauce.
Step 9: Add the partially roasted potatoes to the skillet, tucking them around the chicken.
Step 10: If you’re using the optional 1/2 cup frozen peas, stir them in now. They’ll cook through in the oven.
Step 11: Carefully transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are perfectly tender. This is a crucial part of how to make Chicken Vesuvio that’s just right.
Step 12: Once out of the oven, garnish generously with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Serve your delicious Chicken Vesuvio immediately and enjoy the incredible flavors!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Vesuvio

Want your Chicken Vesuvio to be absolutely perfect? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. Follow these tips for a restaurant-worthy dish every time!

Always use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. They provide the most moisture and flavor, contributing to that classic Chicken Vesuvio taste.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Give each piece enough space to get that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Roast the potatoes separately first until they’re tender and slightly crispy before adding them to the skillet. This ensures they don’t get mushy in the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially before it goes into the oven.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Vesuvio?

The secret lies in building layers of flavor. Properly searing the chicken first, deglazing the pan with wine and broth to capture all those browned bits, and using plenty of garlic are key. This creates a rich, aromatic Chicken Vesuvio sauce that coats everything beautifully.

Can I make Chicken Vesuvio ahead of time?

You can definitely prep components ahead! Roast the potatoes up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. You can also season the chicken ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Vesuvio?

A common pitfall is under-searing the chicken, leading to pale skin and less flavor. Another mistake is overcooking the potatoes, making them mushy. Ensure you sear the chicken well and roast the potatoes until tender-crisp before adding them to the final bake.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Vesuvio

This incredible Chicken Vesuvio is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple accompaniments. For a true taste of Italian-American comfort, I love serving it with crusty bread. This allows you to sop up every last drop of that delicious garlic and white wine sauce – it’s truly irresistible! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also cuts through the richness beautifully. Honestly, this dish is pure Chicken Vesuvio comfort food that makes any meal feel special. For more recipe inspiration, check out our full recipe collection.

Delicious Chicken Vesuvio: 1 Amazing Recipe - Chicken Vesuvio - main visual representation

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Vesuvio

This classic Italian-American dish is hearty and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving of our delicious Chicken Vesuvio:

Calories: 550
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 350mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. If you’re looking for other chicken dishes, you might enjoy our Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Vesuvio

Properly storing and reheating your delicious Chicken Vesuvio ensures you can enjoy its incredible flavors for days to come. After cooking, allow the dish to cool slightly on the counter for about an hour. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can store your Chicken Vesuvio in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer keeping, this dish freezes beautifully! Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes having a hearty Italian meal on hand super convenient. For more tips on food storage, consult FoodSafety.gov.

When you’re ready to reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating refrigerated leftovers, you can gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave them until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Vesuvio

What is Chicken Vesuvio?

Chicken Vesuvio is a classic Italian-American dish, famously originating from Chicago. It features pan-seared chicken and roasted potatoes coated in a savory garlic, white wine, and chicken broth sauce. It’s considered a hearty comfort food, often prepared with bone-in chicken for maximum flavor. Many people consider it the best Chicken Vesuvio they’ve ever had. If you’re interested in other Italian-American classics, you might like our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

What makes Chicken Vesuvio Chicago style?

The “Chicago style” often refers to its specific preparation involving pan-seared chicken and crispy roasted potatoes, all brought together in that distinct garlic-infused wine sauce. While the exact origins are debated, this combination is what most people associate with this beloved dish. It’s this unique preparation that sets Chicken Vesuvio Chicago style apart.

Can I make Chicken Vesuvio with boneless chicken?

Yes, you absolutely can! While bone-in chicken adds extra depth of flavor and helps keep the meat moist, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts will work. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster. You might need slightly less time in the oven to prevent them from drying out, ensuring a delicious result.

What sides go well with Chicken Vesuvio?

This dish is fantastic with simple sides that complement its rich flavors. Crusty Italian bread is a must for soaking up that incredible sauce. A light, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Steamed green beans or asparagus also pair beautifully, adding a fresh element to this satisfying meal. For another chicken option, consider our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros.

Variations of Chicken Vesuvio You Can Try

While the classic recipe is divine, I love experimenting with this dish! Here are a few ways to switch up your Chicken Vesuvio game.

Chicken Vesuvio oven baked: For a hands-off approach, you can adapt this to be fully oven-baked. Sear the chicken first, then combine everything in a baking dish and bake until cooked through. It’s a fantastic way to get a similar flavor with less active cooking.
Add some greens: I often add Chicken Vesuvio with peas towards the end of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness. You could also try adding some chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. It gives the dish a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Lighter Version: To lighten it up, you can use chicken breast and reduce the olive oil slightly. While it won’t be as rich, it’s still a delicious and satisfying meal.