Last year our kids gave us the most memorable 50th anniversary party ever!  We told everyone to dress like it was 1967–NOT Rock and Roll, but “Mad Men” elegant cocktail party style.  Fake cigarettes were everywhere.  What a night!  Our 3 kids are all great cooks, and they re-created some of my favorites from the 60’s, namely Beef Stroganoff and Chicken Cacciatore.

CHICKEN CACCIATORE (the way I made it in 1968)

1 large cut up chicken OR your choice of breasts or thighs (We love thighs–use about 8)

Toss chicken pieces in seasoned flour.  Since this is Italian, use Italian seasonings, salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and even a little parmesan cheese!

In a large skillet, saute chicken in oil about 5 minutes on each side.  Set chicken aside on a platter and in the oil, saute one large chopped onion, and a few cloves of sliced garlic.  After about 5 minutes when the onion is limp, add a cup of red wine and cook down till it’s about 1/2 reduced, then add a 30 oz. can of good tomatoes, crushed, diced, or whatever you like.  Be sure to add salt and pepper to taste.  Simmer 5 minutes and add chicken back into the skillet and put in the oven for about 45 minutes, or till the chicken is done.  Serve over your choice of Pasta.

Note about sauce:  This is a perfect recipe for people who don’t really like to cook, because you can do the whole sauce thing with just a jar of good Pasta sauce.  Use your favorite!  Then just bake as above.