Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta

Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta Recipe - Authentic Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that translates to "hunter's chicken." This hearty and flavorful dish is made with chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, simmered in a savory sauce. It is typically served over pasta, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.

History

Chicken Cacciatore has its origins in Italy, where it was traditionally made with wild game that hunters would catch while out in the field. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken as the main protein, along with a variety of vegetables and herbs. Today, Chicken Cacciatore is a popular dish enjoyed by many around the world.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
0.5 tsp italian seasoning
0.25 tsp garlic powder
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can diced tomatoes with italian herbs
0.5 cup dry white or red wine
2 cup sliced mushrooms
salt
black pepper
3 cup hot cooked whole wheat pasta
minced fresh parsley

How to prepare

Coat a large skillet with non-stick spray.
Heat the skillet over medium heat.
Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook over medium heat, turning once, for about 5 minutes or until browned.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the onions, green peppers, and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 8 minutes or until the onions are tender.
Add the tomatoes (with juice), wine, and mushrooms to the skillet.
Return the chicken to the skillet and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
If the sauce is too thin, transfer the chicken to a warm dish and set aside.
Continue cooking the sauce, uncovered, at a brisk simmer for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
Season the sauce to taste with salt and black pepper.
Serve the chicken and sauce over the pasta.
Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
Add olives or capers for a briny twist.
Use different types of pasta, such as penne or spaghetti.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the dish, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning and garlic powder before cooking.

- Be sure to brown the chicken before simmering it in the sauce to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.

- For a richer sauce, use a combination of white and red wine.

- Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp for added texture.

- Simmer the chicken in the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use bone-in chicken pieces for a more flavorful dish.

- Substitute red bell peppers for green bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, for a classic Italian meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta contains approximately 35 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Cacciatore is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the whole-wheat pasta. It may also contain sulfites from the wine.

Summary

Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and hearty pasta, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. She had just returned from a trip to Italy, and she was eager to share a new recipe she had learned while she was there.

As Maria pulled out the ingredients for Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta, I could smell the savory aroma of garlic and tomatoes filling the air. I watched as she expertly chopped the vegetables and browned the chicken in a hot skillet. The sound of sizzling filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta, and I was immediately transported to the streets of Italy. The flavors were rich and robust, the chicken was tender, and the whole-wheat pasta added a nutty depth to the dish. I knew I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself.

Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, but this one holds a special place in my heart. Maria taught me how to make Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta that day, and I have been making it ever since. It has become a family favorite, and whenever I cook it, the memories of that summer day in Maria's kitchen come flooding back.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am reminded of all the wonderful people who have shared their culinary knowledge with me over the years. From my own grandmother, who taught me how to make the perfect pie crust, to the friendly vendor at the farmers market who shared his secret to making the best homemade salsa, I am grateful for the wisdom and generosity of those who have passed down their recipes to me.

Learning how to make Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta has been a delicious adventure, filled with laughter, love, and countless meals shared with family and friends. It is a recipe that has brought joy to my kitchen and warmth to my heart, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue passing it down to future generations.

So, the next time you find yourself in search of a new recipe to try, I encourage you to explore the flavors of Chicken Cacciatore with Whole-wheat Pasta. Let the savory aromas and rich flavors transport you to a place of culinary delight, where every bite is a taste of Italy and every meal is a memory waiting to be made. Bon appétit!