Easy Quick Microwave Chicken Cacciatore
A quick and flavorful chicken dish with a rich tomato sauce and earthy mushrooms, perfect for busy weeknights. The microwave method keeps it simple and tender, making it a great choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve over pasta for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange chicken parts or 4 breasts in a 12 x 8-inch baking dish, bone side down, with thicker portions toward the edges of the dish.
- Top with 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms.
- Stir 1/2 teaspoon dried basil into 2 cups pasta sauce and pour over the chicken.
- Cover with waxed paper.
- Microwave on high for 17 minutes or until a fork can be inserted easily into the chicken and juices run clear, rearranging pieces once during cooking.
- Serve over cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick flavor boost, consider adding bell peppers or onions along with the mushrooms. If you don't have dried basil, Italian seasoning works well too. Using pre-cooked chicken can significantly reduce cooking time. Pair this dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. For a lighter option, serve it over zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Quick Microwave Chicken Cacciatore over your choice of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a hearty meal. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it alongside Italian Sausage And Bean Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Quick Microwave Chicken Cacciatore contains roughly 347 calories, with 21g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (164% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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 will require additional cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. If you have time, thawing the chicken beforehand will yield better results and more even cooking.
What can I substitute for pasta sauce?
If you don't have pasta sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling everything in the baking dish and storing it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to increase the cooking time slightly when you're ready to microwave it.
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).