Are you planning to make chicken cacciatore but not sure what to serve alongside it? You’re not alone! This classic Italian “hunter’s chicken” dish is absolutely delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can transform your meal from good to extraordinary.
As someone who’s cooked this dish for countless family gatherings, I’ve experimented with many different side dishes over the years. Today, I’m gonna share my favorite accompaniments that complement this rustic Italian classic perfectly.
What is Chicken Cacciatore?
Before diving into the sides let’s briefly talk about what chicken cacciatore actually is. The word “cacciatore” means “hunter” in Italian and this rustic dish lives up to its name with hearty, satisfying flavors.
Chicken cacciatore typically consists of chicken pieces braised in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms. It’s seasoned with herbs and sometimes cooked with red wine for added depth. The result is a rich, savory dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Traditional Accompaniments for Chicken Cacciatore
Traditionally, chicken cacciatore is served with one of these three classic options:
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Polenta – This creamy cornmeal dish is particularly popular in northern Italy and provides a wonderful contrast to the chunky vegetables and tender chicken.
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Pasta – Heartier pasta shapes like pappardelle, tagliatelle, or penne work best to capture the rich sauce.
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Crusty Bread – A simple yet effective option that allows you to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce. Sourdough or ciabatta are excellent choices.
Now let’s explore these options and more in greater detail!
13 Perfect Side Dishes for Chicken Cacciatore
1. Creamy Polenta
Polenta is arguably the most traditional pairing for chicken cacciatore. This northern Italian staple creates a perfect base for the rich cacciatore sauce. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the chunky vegetables and tender chicken.
I like to make mine with a bit of butter and Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end for extra richness. The mild flavor of polenta works as a canvas that really allows the vibrant flavors of the cacciatore to shine.
2. Pasta
Almost any pasta works well with chicken cacciatore, but thicker, heartier varieties tend to be the best choice. Here are some options:
- Pappardelle
- Tagliatelle
- Fettuccine
- Penne
- Rigatoni
The key is choosing a pasta shape that can stand up to the chunky sauce and capture all those delicious flavors. I personally love pappardelle – those wide ribbons are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
3. Crusty Bread
There’s something incredibly satisfying about tearing into a piece of crusty bread and using it to mop up the flavorful sauce of chicken cacciatore. Varieties like sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic Italian loaf work beautifully.
For extra indulgence, consider making garlic bread – the added flavor pairs wonderfully with the tomato-based sauce.
4. Mashed Potatoes
While not traditionally Italian, creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for chicken cacciatore. The sauce mingles with the potatoes creating an irresistible combination. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves!
For the best texture, I recommend using russet potatoes. Add a splash of warm milk, butter, and a pinch of salt for that perfect, fluffy consistency.
5. Roasted Potatoes
If mashed isn’t your style, crispy roasted potatoes are another fantastic option. Seasoned with olive oil, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano, they complement the flavors in the cacciatore perfectly.
The contrast between the crispy exterior and soft interior of the potatoes provides a wonderful textural element to your meal.
6. Colorful Roasted Vegetables
A sheet pan of roasted vegetables makes for a nutritious and colorful side dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms all work wonderfully.
I like to toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting, then finish with fresh herbs right when they come out of the oven. The caramelization from roasting adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
7. Zucchini Noodles
For a lighter, low-carb option, zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) are perfect. They add a fresh, vibrant element to the plate and pair beautifully with the rich cacciatore sauce.
You can make them into different shapes – spaghetti, fettuccine, or even wide pappardelle-style strips. They’re not just healthy; they’re delicious too!
8. Gnocchi
These pillowy potato dumplings are a wonderful alternative to pasta. Their soft texture soaks up the cacciatore sauce beautifully. You can make them from scratch or use store-bought ones for convenience.
Whether you opt for traditional potato gnocchi or get creative with spinach and ricotta or squash varieties, they make for a satisfying side.
9. Risotto
A creamy risotto, particularly a simple Parmesan risotto, pairs wonderfully with chicken cacciatore. It adds another layer of richness and comfort to the meal.
The slow cooking process for risotto might seem intimidating, but I promise the results are worth it. That creamy texture against the chunky cacciatore is simply divine.
10. Rice
While not traditional, rice can be a suitable alternative if you prefer a lighter option. Jasmine or wild rice both work well, providing a nice bed for the cacciatore sauce.
It’s also a great option if you’re cooking for people with gluten sensitivities who can’t have pasta or bread.
11. Sautéed Greens
For a light and healthy side, sautéed greens provide a nice contrast to the rich cacciatore. Spinach, broccoli, broccolini, watercress, arugula, kale, bok choy, or collards all work beautifully.
I like to keep it simple – just some good olive oil, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes is all you need. The slight bitterness of the greens balances the richness of the cacciatore perfectly.
12. Baked Cheesy Fennel
Fennel brings a light anise flavor that pairs surprisingly well with chicken cacciatore. When baked with cheese and breadcrumbs, it transforms into a delicious side dish that complements without competing with the main course.
The subtle sweetness of fennel works wonderfully against the savory, slightly acidic flavors of the cacciatore.
13. Hearty Green Salad
Sometimes, the best companion to a rich dish is a simple, fresh salad. A mix of arugula and frisée with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon provides the perfect bright counterpoint to the hearty cacciatore.
You could also add some nuts, seeds, or vegetables for extra texture and nutrition, but honestly, the simplicity of greens dressed with good olive oil and lemon is hard to beat.
Completing Your Italian Feast: Dessert Options
After enjoying your chicken cacciatore with one (or more!) of these sides, you might want to finish your Italian feast with an appropriate dessert. Here are a few suggestions:
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Tiramisu – The coffee-infused layers of mascarpone cheese, cream, and ladyfingers make for a perfect “pick-me-up” after a hearty meal.
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Affogato – A simple scoop of vanilla gelato topped with a shot of hot espresso. Simple yet elegant!
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Granita – This icy treat is similar to sorbet but with more ice crystals. It’s a great palate cleanser after a rich meal.
Wine Pairings
Since chicken cacciatore often includes wine in the sauce, it’s natural to serve the dish with a glass of wine as well. Some good options include:
- Merlot
- Sangiovese
- Pinot Noir
- Chianti
- Zinfandel
Remember, it’s best to cook with a wine you’d be happy to drink!
Final Thoughts
Chicken cacciatore is such a versatile dish that it pairs well with numerous side dishes. Whether you stick with the traditional polenta, pasta, or bread, or venture into other options like roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles, you really can’t go wrong.
The key is to choose sides that complement rather than compete with the rich flavors of the cacciatore. And don’t forget that most important rule of Italian cooking – cook with love and enjoy with family and friends!
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with chicken cacciatore? I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!
Italian History and Folklore Behind the Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore, or “Pollo alla Cacciatora” in Italian, translates to “hunters chicken,” a name that reveals much about its humble origins. This dish has a rich history that dates back to the Renaissance period in Italy, though its exact origins have been passed on through folklore stories and tradition.
The term “cacciatora” refers to a meal prepared “hunter-style” with ingredients that a hunter might have had readily available. One popular folklore narrative gives a clue into how this dish came to be. After spending many nights away from home, hunters would return with whatever game they could find and catch. This wasn’t traditionally chicken, but instead, they found birds and rabbits, and sometimes wild boar. Hunters returning would also pick up foraged vegetables and other miscellaneous food products that looked edible.
Their families would combine these meats, along with the foraged herbs and vegetables, to prepare a nourishing (although not always tasty) meal. Over time as access to key ingredients became more readily available, this dish became a celebration of the hunters successful return and the ability to feed the family.
In every simmering plate of authentic chicken cacciatore, there lies a story of journeys, family, and the profound joy of a meal shared. Its a dish that has traveled through the decades, from the forests of Italy to the dinner tables of America, and it has become a cherished part of Italian-American culinary culture.
Wine Pairings for Chicken Cacciatore
- Chianti: Known for its vibrant acidity and fruity undertones, Chianti is a perfect match for the chicken cacciatores tomato-based sauce. Its lively character enhances the flavors of the chicken and complements the herbs in the sauce.
- Montepulciano dAbruzzo: This medium-bodied red wine from the Abruzzo region of Italy also pairs beautifully with rich flavors of the chicken cacciatore. Its subtle tannins and rich fruitiness make it an excellent partner to this dish
How to Make Chicken Cacciatore – The Mediterranean Dish
FAQ
What do you eat cacciatore with?
- Creamy Polenta.
- Risotto milanese– The most traditional side to serve with cacciatore and hands down everyone’s favourite.
- White or Brown rice.
- Crispy roasted potatoes or boiled, buttered potatoes.
- Plain pasta noodles such as tagliatelle egg noodles.
What is chicken cacciatore served on?
It’s a tomato-based sauce and people often add onions, bell peppers, garlic, herbs (like oregano, basil, and rosemary), and mushrooms into it. What is best to serve with chicken cacciatore? It can go well with crusty bread or pasta, and a side salad.
What pasta to serve with chicken cacciatore for dinner?
My mother serves chicken cacciatore with pasta, specifically with her homemade cavatelli. But you can serve the delicious sauce with any pasta of your choice. Before adding pasta to the sauce, I removed the chicken pieces and cooked the sauce on medium heat for 10-15 minutes longer in order to thicken it.
Is chicken cacciatore served over rice?
Chicken cacciatore is an easy skillet dinner that can be served up over either pasta or rice.