If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying Italian meal, Chicken Cacciatore is an excellent choice. This classic dish features tender chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce with onion, garlic, and herbs. And the best part? One tray of Chicken Cacciatore (248 g) contains only 290 calories!

In addition to being low in calories, Chicken Cacciatore is also a great source of protein, with about 26 grams per tray. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

Whether you're trying to maintain a healthy diet or simply looking for a tasty dinner option, Chicken Cacciatore is a great choice. Read on to learn more about this classic Italian dish and how to prepare it at home.

What is Chicken Cacciatore?

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that originated in the countryside of Italy. In Italian, the word "Cacciatore" means hunter, and this dish was traditionally made with game birds that hunters would catch in the wild. Today, most Chicken Cacciatore recipes are made with chicken thighs or legs, but you can also use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. The chicken is first browned in a pan, then simmered in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and herbs like oregano and basil. Chicken Cacciatore is typically served over pasta, but it also goes well with rice, polenta, or crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

How Many Calories are in 1 Tray of Chicken Cacciatore?

One tray of Chicken Cacciatore (248 g) contains approximately 290 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a satisfying and filling meal. Additionally, Chicken Cacciatore is high in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time.

What are the Main Ingredients of Chicken Cacciatore?

The main ingredients in Chicken Cacciatore include chicken (usually thighs or legs), tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a variety of herbs like oregano and basil. Additional ingredients may include mushrooms, olives, and capers, which add a salty and briny flavor to the dish. Chicken Cacciatore is typically served over pasta, but it can also be served with rice, polenta, or crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

What Kind of Diet is Chicken Cacciatore Suitable for?

Chicken Cacciatore can be a great choice for a variety of diets, depending on how it's prepared. If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the pasta and serve the Chicken Cacciatore over vegetables like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead. If you're following a gluten-free diet, be sure to check the ingredients in any store-bought Chicken Cacciatore sauce or make your own using gluten-free ingredients. Overall, Chicken Cacciatore is a good source of protein and a relatively low-calorie option, making it suitable for many different types of diets.

What are the Health Benefits of Chicken Cacciatore?

Chicken Cacciatore is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken provides high-quality protein, while the tomatoes and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C. Additionally, the herbs used in the dish, like oregano and basil, are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, Chicken Cacciatore is a healthy and delicious option for a satisfying Italian meal.

How to Cook Chicken Cacciatore at Home?

To make Chicken Cacciatore at home, you'll need chicken (usually thighs or legs), canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and a variety of herbs like oregano and basil. First, brown the chicken in a pan. Then, add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers and sauté for a few minutes. Add the canned tomatoes, herbs, and any additional ingredients like olives or capers and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes. Serve the Chicken Cacciatore over pasta, rice, or polenta for a satisfying and filling meal.

What are Some Variations of Chicken Cacciatore Recipes?

There are many different variations of Chicken Cacciatore recipes, depending on personal preference and regional cuisine. Some recipes call for mushrooms or wine, while others may include capers, olives, or anchovies. Additionally, some people prefer to use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs or legs. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to find the perfect Chicken Cacciatore recipe for you.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Cacciatore?

Leftover Chicken Cacciatore can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave the Chicken Cacciatore until heated through, or heat it up in a pan on the stove. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of broth or water to thin it out.

Can You Freeze Chicken Cacciatore?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Cacciatore for up to three months. Simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents so you can easily identify it later. To reheat, simply thaw the Chicken Cacciatore in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it up in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Is Chicken Cacciatore Gluten-Free?

Chicken Cacciatore can be made gluten-free depending on the ingredients used. If you're making the sauce from scratch, be sure to use gluten-free canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Additionally, if you're serving the Chicken Cacciatore over pasta, be sure to use gluten-free pasta or substitute with another gluten-free option like zucchini noodles. If you're purchasing pre-made Chicken Cacciatore sauce, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it's gluten-free.