are you ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? Chicken Cacciatore pasta is one of my all-time favorite dishes, packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a flavorful sauce that will make your taste buds dance! Let’s whip up this appetizing meal together, and I promise it’ll be a hit at your dinner table!

Cook Time: 60

Prep Time: 30

Yields: 6

Calories: 631

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

making Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is a delightful culinary adventure, and it all starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table:

4 chicken leg quarters – These provide rich flavor and tender meat.
1 ¾ teaspoons salt – Perfect for seasoning the chicken and the dish.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil – Use for sautéing the vegetables and browning the chicken.
1 red bell pepper,cut into strips – Adds sweetness and crunch.
1 cup sliced onion – For a savory base in our sauce.
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – A must for aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano – This herb brings a lovely, fragrant note.
1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme – An earthy complement to the dish.
1 (28-ounce) can tomato puree – Forms the base of our sauce, providing depth and richness.
½ cup water – To adjust the sauce’s consistency.
1 (15.5-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – Adds protein and texture.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar – Enhances the flavors with a touch of acidity.
8 ounces dried fusilli or penne pasta – The perfect vehicle for our delicious sauce!

These ingredients come together to create a vibrant and hearty meal. Each item plays a key role in building flavor, so choose fresh and high-quality items when you can.Let’s get started on the next exciting step!

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

Now that we have all our ingredients, it’s time to bring them together in the kitchen. Follow these straightforward steps to create a mouthwatering Chicken Cacciatore Pasta:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).This prepares your cooking surroundings for the chicken to bake beautifully.

Season the chicken by sprinkling it with 1 teaspoon of salt. This enhances its flavor.

Heat the oil in a large, heavy, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking—about 1 minute.

Brown the chicken: Carefully place the chicken in the pot, skin-side down. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning once until it’s golden brown. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate.

Sauté the veggies: Pour off any excess fat,leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add the herbs and sauce: Stir in the oregano,thyme,tomato puree,water,and the remaining ¾ teaspoon salt. bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Return the chicken: Place the chicken back in the pot, cover it, and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the chicken is tender.

Shred the chicken: Once cooked,take the chicken out and let it cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into large pieces.

Mix in the finishing touches: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with the cannellini beans and red wine vinegar. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Cook the pasta: In the meantime, cook your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain it, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Combine everything: Stir the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Your Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is now ready to serve! Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy every mouthful!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

Once you’ve prepared your Chicken Cacciatore Pasta, serving it right can enhance the experience.This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the pot, allowing the flavors to shine. Here are some serving suggestions:

Portioning: This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Scoop out generous portions to showcase the tender chicken and vibrant sauce, ensuring each plate looks inviting.

Accompaniments: Pair your pasta with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

Garnishing: Finish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

Storage Recommendations:

If you have leftovers (which is unusual, but hey, it happens!), let the pasta cool completely before storing. Here’s how to properly store your Chicken Cacciatore Pasta:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to moisten the pasta.

Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting Tips for Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

While making Chicken Cacciatore Pasta is quite straightforward, a few tips can make the process smoother and help you tackle common issues.

Chicken Cooked Through: Always check that your chicken is thoroughly cooked. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). if you don’t have a meat thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out. this will help the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.

Flavor Balance: Taste your sauce before serving! If it feels a bit flat, a quick splash of red wine vinegar or a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors dramatically.

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to get creative.Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. If you prefer a different type of pasta, any sturdy shape will work just fine.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and sauté the veggies longer to build flavor.

With these serving and storage tips, along with helpful troubleshooting notes, you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Chicken Cacciatore Pasta time and again!