Chicken Cacciatora(Pollo Alla Cacciatora)
Chicken Cacciatora features tender chicken simmered with mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a hearty, flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and clean the chicken; pat dry.
- Cut chicken into 20 pieces, cutting breast into 2 pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven.
- Saute chicken and bay leaves in oil until well browned, approximately 15 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion to drippings. Saute over medium heat until onion is tender.
- Add remaining ingredients and cook for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with rice or a side of spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs overnight. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute. You can also add bell peppers or olives for extra depth. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. This Chicken Cacciatora pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Broccoli Chicken Tortellini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cacciatora over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside al dente spaghetti for a comforting meal. A side of garlic bread can complement the dish perfectly. Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it with roasted vegetables for a hearty side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it, covered, in short intervals to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cacciatora(Pollo Alla Cacciatora) contains roughly 273 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster than bone-in pieces. Ensure it's cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned diced tomatoes work best for this recipe, but you can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure to peel and chop them before adding.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Chicken Cacciatora tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
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).