Chicken Cacciataco
Chicken Cacciataco offers a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, combining seasoned chicken with a savory tomato and taco seasoning sauce. Perfect for a hearty, family-friendly meal, it pairs well with rice or spaghetti and is quick to prepare for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle chicken with Lawry's seasoned salt.
- Brown the chicken on all sides in hot oil; then drain.
- Combine taco seasoning mix, water, and chopped tomatoes.
- Pour the mixture over the browned chicken.
- Cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice or spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in taco seasoning and lime juice for a couple of hours before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or avocado for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cacciataco over fluffy rice or spaghetti for a hearty meal. Pair it with a side of refried beans or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. This dish also pairs beautifully with Chicken Tortilla Roll-Ups for a fun family meal or gathering. Don't forget to add your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cacciataco contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're pressed for time, you can cook from frozen, but it may take longer to brown and fully cook the chicken.
What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
If you don't have taco seasoning, you can make a quick substitute by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust the amounts to taste, depending on how spicy you want the dish.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Chicken Cacciataco a day ahead. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when reheated.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).