Craving a comforting dish that brings classic Italian flavors to your table? This Chicken Cacciatore Casserole is just what you need. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, this meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that simplifies your cooking with minimal cleanup!
Imagine diving into a warm, bubbling casserole filled with juicy chicken, bell peppers, and mushrooms, all simmered to perfection in a savory sauce. This dish is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about satisfying your taste buds with every bite. Serve it alongside a loaf of crusty bread, and you’ve got a dinner that’s bound to impress.
Hearty Ingredients for a Comforting Meal
The foundation of any great casserole begins with quality ingredients. For this Chicken Cacciatore Casserole, tender chicken thighs are the star, complemented by a vibrant array of vegetables.
Chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers add a burst of flavor, while mushrooms bring an earthy note to the dish. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a savory profile that’s both rich and comforting.
Don’t forget the robust tomato sauce, which ties all these components together. A can of diced tomatoes, combined with chicken broth and Italian seasoning, will create a delectable base that enhances the overall taste of the casserole.
Simple Preparation Steps
Getting this casserole ready is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills. Start by preheating your oven, which sets the stage for that delicious, bubbling finish.
In a skillet, sauté your chicken until it’s golden brown on both sides. This initial step helps lock in flavor and creates a beautiful texture. Once the chicken is ready, move on to the vegetables. Sautéing these in the same skillet allows you to capture all the delicious bits left behind from the chicken.
Combine the chicken, sautéed vegetables, and tomato mixture in a large bowl. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together beautifully. Finally, mix in cooked pasta for that satisfying heartiness.
The Cheesy Topping
No casserole is complete without a generous layer of cheese on top. In this recipe, a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a wonderful, gooey finish that is simply irresistible.
Sprinkling the cheese evenly over the casserole allows for an even melt, resulting in a golden, crispy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender ingredients beneath. This layer not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing visual element.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the casserole is covered with aluminum foil and placed in the oven. This initial stage allows it to cook evenly while keeping the moisture locked in.
After approximately 25 minutes, removing the foil enables the cheese to brown and bubble, giving that iconic casserole look. The final result is a beautiful, rustic dish that’s perfect for serving right from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Cacciatore Casserole is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Serve it in a rustic dish for an inviting presentation that captures the essence of Italian comfort food.
A side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce, allowing you to enjoy every last bite. Garnishing with fresh basil adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that elevates the dish even further.
This meal is ideal for family gatherings, providing a hearty serving that feeds a group while bringing everyone together around the table. It’s comfort food at its finest, sure to become a repeat favorite.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Just let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Reheating can be done in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. This allows the casserole to heat evenly, ensuring you enjoy that warm, comforting experience all over again.
Delicious Chicken Cacciatore Casserole
This Chicken Cacciatore Casserole is a delightful mix of sautéed chicken and colorful vegetables in a robust tomato sauce, topped with gooey cheese. The casserole is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those who love a comforting Italian meal in a convenient format.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Mix with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Pour into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
