Easy Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and simplicity all together, this Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a wonderful balance of rustic Italian tradition and easy weeknight cooking. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce that are easy to gather and work with.
• Rich Flavor: Combines robust tomato, garlic, herbs, and tender chicken for a deliciously hearty meal.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Family Friendly: Satisfies all ages and pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta for a filling meal.
• Customizable: Easily tweak it to fit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta recipe relies on a few essential ingredients that bring together the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and vibrant color. Each element enhances the dish, whether it’s the tender chicken, aromatic herbs, or fresh vegetables.

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor and tenderness.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken for caramelized edges.
• Bell peppers: Offers sweetness and crunch, bringing bright color to the plate.
• Onion and garlic: Form the flavorful base for the sauce.
• Crushed tomatoes: Create a robust and slightly tangy sauce essential for cacciatore.
• Mushrooms: Impart earthiness and meaty texture to the mixture.
• Dried oregano and basil: Classic Italian herbs that lift the sauce with fragrant notes.
• Chicken broth or white wine: Adds depth and moisture while simmering.
• Pasta: Traditional choices like spaghetti or pappardelle work wonderfully to soak up the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to balance and enhance flavors.

Variations for Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta is forgiving and versatile, making it a great base for customization.

• Use chicken breasts: Substitute thighs with breasts for a leaner option if preferred.
• Add olives or capers: Bring a briny punch for a Mediterranean twist.
• Swap pasta for zucchini noodles: Make it low-carb and gluten-free while still enjoying the flavors.
• Incorporate spicy elements: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil if you like a little heat.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with extra mushrooms, eggplant, or tofu for a hearty plant-based alternative.

How to Make Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and set it aside – this helps lock in flavor and ensures a crispy exterior.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced onions, bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables soften and develop color, about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth or white wine, and sprinkle dried oregano and basil. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water, which you can stir into the sauce later if needed to loosen it.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is ready, serve it atop the cooked pasta. Spoon plenty of sauce over the top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a bright, fresh finish.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta

• Brown the chicken well: This step adds incredible depth to the final dish’s flavor.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs: They stay juicier and add richness to the sauce.
• Simmer gently: Low and slow cooking helps infuse all the flavors perfectly.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds up when combined with the sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: It’s great for adjusting sauce consistency and adding subtle starchiness.

How to Serve Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese bring a pop of color and layer of flavor that complements the hearty sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal and balance the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken on a bed of pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy, family-style vibe, or plate it elegantly by slicing the chicken off the bone and draping it across twirled nests of pasta for dinner guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors continue to deepen.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Store the chicken and sauce without pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the sauce silky and prevent drying out. Reheat cooked pasta separately or mix it in just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but they may cook faster and can be less juicy, so adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out.

What type of pasta is best for Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta?

Traditional pastas like spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle are excellent choices as they hold the sauce beautifully and offer a hearty bite.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free easily by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available at most stores.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, the sauce and chicken can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

How spicy is Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta?

This version is mild and flavorful, but you can add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to introduce some heat according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta is a recipe that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. Its simplicity combined with rich, comforting flavors makes it a staple worth having in your weekly rotation. Give it a go, and you might just find your new favorite easy dinner that impresses family and friends every time.

Related Posts

• Why Marry Me Chicken Is the Ultimate Recipe
• How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp Perfectly
• How to Make Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

Print