Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and rich tomato sauce over a bed of pasta. Inspired by the traditional Italian “hunter-style” cacciatore, this dish includes braised chicken with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, simmered in a tomato-based sauce infused with herbs and a splash of wine. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite full of delicious, rustic flavors. Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, followed by the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken cacciatore sauce until well coated.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is a delicious, rustic meal that brings together the comforting flavors of slow-simmered chicken and vegetables with the satisfying texture of pasta. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish is both hearty and full of rich, Italian-inspired flavors.
