Jackie'S Low-Cal Chicken Cacciatore
Jackie's Low-Cal Chicken Cacciatore offers a flavorful, hearty dish with tender chicken simmered in a tomato-based sauce with onions and green peppers. Light and satisfying, it suits those seeking a healthy, comforting meal full of vibrant flavors and essential nutrients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into serving size pieces.
- Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add the canned tomatoes, sliced onions, minced garlic, and water or wine to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meat is just tender.
- Add the green peppers and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Skim off any fat and simmer the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot. This dish makes about 6 to 8 servings, each approximately 202 calories or less.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs before cooking. If you don't have red wine, chicken broth can be a good substitute for moisture. You can also use fresh tomatoes in place of canned, but adjust cooking time accordingly. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or substitute bell peppers with jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jackie’s Low-Cal Chicken Cacciatore over whole-grain pasta or alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Nonfat Pasta Primavera for a delicious and healthy dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce moist. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Low-Cal Chicken Cacciatore contains roughly 115 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1130mg per serving (49% 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 bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces may take longer to become tender. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for green peppers?
If you don’t have green peppers, you can use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter taste. Zucchini can also be a great alternative for a different texture, and it will still complement the dish well.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt for a slow cooker, brown the chicken first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method will yield tender chicken and a rich sauce.
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).