Chicken Pizzaiola
A vibrant, savory chicken dish simmered with cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and mushrooms, perfect for a flavorful family dinner served over rice or pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a deep skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic halves, cherry tomatoes, and basil; sauté until tomatoes are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes, then mash with a potato masher.
- Add chicken cubes and sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Reduce heat to simmer (medium-low to low).
- Allow to simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve over rice or angel hair pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar while sautéing the tomatoes. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but reduce the quantity as it's more concentrated. You can also substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result. Experiment with other Italian recipes to find new favorites.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Pizzaiola over a bed of rice or angel hair pasta for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. For a fresh touch, garnish with additional basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Pizzaiola contains roughly 1124 calories, with 84g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (168% of the Daily Value), iron (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 462mg per serving (20% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative. Opt for whole or diced tomatoes and adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may not need as long to soften. Drain excess liquid if desired to avoid a watery sauce.
What can I use instead of mushrooms?
If you don’t have mushrooms on hand, you can substitute with zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Each will add a different texture and flavor, enhancing the dish while keeping it aligned with Italian cuisine.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, Chicken Pizzaiola can be prepared in advance. Cook it fully, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
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).