Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore is a rustic Italian dish that showcases tender chicken simmered with savory vegetables and rich tomato sauce. With its vibrant flavors and comforting essence, it's perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing a taste of Italy to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan.
- Cook the chicken in the hot oil until it is lightly browned and no longer pink inside, about 10 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the pan and keep warm.
- Place vegetables in the pan drippings, adding more oil if needed, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Drain excess oil and return the chicken to the pan along with the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and salad dressing.
- Heat through and serve over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian salad dressing for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute the green pepper with red or yellow peppers for a sweeter taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. This dish pairs well with other Italian recipes, like Skillet Chicken Italiano.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken cacciatore over hot cooked rice for a comforting meal. Consider pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors. For a variation, try serving it with pasta instead of rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken cacciatore in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cacciatore contains roughly 509 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, typically around 25-30 minutes. The bones will add extra flavor to the sauce, but be sure to remove them before serving.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes instead. Just blend them for a smoother texture if desired. You can also add additional seasonings like basil and oregano to enhance the flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, chicken cacciatore can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
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).