Grandma'S Chicken Cacciatore
Grandma's Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty Italian-inspired stew featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with mushrooms, onions, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for comforting family dinners, it pairs beautifully with spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 6-quart pot over medium to high heat, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Brown the chicken thighs on both sides; remove and set aside.
- Saute the chopped onion in the same pot for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms and continue to saute until they are golden brown and the onion is soft.
- Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano; stir well and cover.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour until the chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Serve the chicken cacciatore over cooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you don't have crushed tomatoes, you can substitute with diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the dish. Pair this with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken cacciatore over cooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes. This dish also pairs well with a glass of red wine. For variety, try it alongside Speedy Chicken Lasagna for a delightful Italian-themed dinner.
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 or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Chicken Cacciatore contains roughly 809 calories, with 25g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (260% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (245% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain juicy. You could also consider marinating the breasts beforehand for added moisture.
What can I serve with chicken cacciatore?
Chicken cacciatore pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables. You could also enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
Can I freeze chicken cacciatore?
Yes, chicken cacciatore freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
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).