Chicken cacciatore with pasta

Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta: A Flavorful Recipe Full of Aroma

Total preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Marinating time: 5 hours (or overnight)
Number of servings: 4

Discover a delicious recipe for Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta, a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will bring joy to your table. This recipe is an adaptation of traditional recipes, blending techniques and ingredients to create a savory and comforting dish. Chicken cacciatore is often associated with family meals, turning cooking into an experience filled with love and warmth.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 pieces of chicken breast, thighs, or drumsticks (approximately 800 g)
- 200-250 ml white wine (choose a quality wine that is pleasant to drink)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 carrots (fresh, young, for a sweeter flavor)
- 300 g mushrooms (champignon or forest mushrooms, as preferred)
- 2 large onions (white or yellow)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste or 1-2 medium tomatoes (in season, for a rich flavor)
- Olive oil (for browning)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- A pinch of rosemary, thyme, and oregano (herbs that provide a Mediterranean note)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Marinade:

1. Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, 100 ml of water, 50 ml of white wine, the juice from one or two slices of lemon, thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Mix all the ingredients well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or, ideally, overnight. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

Preparing the Main Dish:

1. In a large skillet or deep pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden and soft.
2. Add the diced mushrooms and continue to sauté until the mushrooms brown and release their juices.
3. Once the onions and mushrooms are ready, add the marinated chicken to the skillet and brown it on both sides for 5-7 minutes until golden.
4. Add a cup of water and bring to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the white wine. Let it simmer until the alcohol evaporates.
5. Add the diced carrots, seasonings (salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, oregano), and mix well.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes. Check occasionally and add water if the sauce reduces too much.
7. Towards the end, add the crushed garlic cloves and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Preparing the Pasta:

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add your preferred pasta (tagliatelle or spaghetti works very well).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually between 7-10 minutes. Taste to check if they are al dente.
3. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the pot with the chicken sauce. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Serving and Suggestions:

Serve the Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta on a deep plate, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread to savor the delicious sauce.

Practical Tips:

- Types of Meat: If you prefer juicier chicken, opt for thighs or drumsticks. Chicken breast is leaner but can be successfully used if you want a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the chicken with tofu or larger mushrooms, such as portobello mushrooms, for a vegetarian version.
- Pasta Variations: Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, which can hold the sauce better.

Nutritional Benefits:

This Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and whole grain pasta, providing an excellent source of energy. Carrots and mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants, while the herbs contribute essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use turkey meat?
- Yes, turkey meat is a healthy and delicious alternative.

2. How long can I keep leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

3. What wine should I use?
- Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the dish.

Chicken Cacciatore with Pasta is a recipe that combines authentic flavors and the comfort of home cooking. Whether you prepare it for a special dinner or simply to indulge in a delicious meal, this recipe will surely bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy your meal!