One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore
This Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty gluten-free, and diabetes-friendly twist on the classic Italian favourite, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable sauce. It’s a wholesome, one-pan meal that delivers bold flavour while supporting balanced blood sugar.
- Suitable for diets:
- Gluten Free
- High-Protein
- Mediterranean
Servings:
Why Diabetes Friendly?
- High protein content from chicken helps stabilize blood sugar and reduce spikes after meals.
- Low in refined carbohydrates — no added sugars or starch-heavy ingredients.
- High fibre vegetables (zucchini, mushrooms, peppers, tomatoes) slow glucose absorption.
- Healthy fats from olive oil improve insulin sensitivity and promote satiety.
- Low glycemic load overall due to balanced macros and minimal processed ingredients.
- Acidic components (balsamic vinegar, tomatoes) may help moderate post-meal blood sugar response.
- Portion-friendly — easy to pair with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or leafy greens.
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Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- chicken thighs (boneless, skinless ) 2 lb
- olive oil 2 tbsp
- salt ½ tsp
- black pepper ½ tsp
- onion (chopped) 1 medium
- bell pepper (chopped) 1
- garlic (minced) 3 cloves
- chicken broth (low-sodium ) ¾ cup
- tomatoes (crushed, canned) 28 oz
- mushrooms (sliced) 8 oz
- zucchini (chopped) 1 small
- Italian seasoning 2 tsp
- balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp
- green olives (sliced) 2 tbsp
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Cooking Tips
- Sear chicken properly to build a rich flavour base, but avoid fully cooking it during this step to keep it tender.
- Use low-sodium ingredients like broth and olives to better control overall salt content.
- Simmer uncovered first to allow the sauce to reduce and concentrate in flavour before returning the chicken.
- Cut vegetables evenly to ensure consistent texture and even cooking throughout.
- Layer seasoning gradually by adding herbs and optional chili flakes early for deeper flavour infusion.
- Finish with fresh herbs and lemon juice to enhance brightness without adding extra sodium or calories.
- Adjust sauce consistency by simmering longer uncovered if a thicker, richer texture is desired.
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Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.2 tbsp olive oil
- Season chicken with salt & pepper and sear 3–4 min per side until browned. Set aside.2 lb chicken thighs, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining oil, onion, and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minute. Add garlic, and cook for an additional 1 minute.1 medium onion, 1 bell pepper, 3 cloves garlic
- Pour in broth, scraping up browned bits. Add tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, Italian seasoning, and balsamic. Simmer 10–12 minutes uncovered.¾ cup chicken broth, 28 oz tomatoes, 8 oz mushrooms, 1 small zucchini, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Nestle chicken back into sauce. Cover partially and simmer for 15–20 min until cooked through.
- Stir in green olives during the last 5 minutes of cooking.2 tbsp green olives
- Finish with fresh herbs, chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
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FAQ
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but it may be slightly less juicy. Reduce cooking time to avoid drying out. - Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It’s close, but tomatoes and onions add some carbs. It can fit into moderate low-carb plans. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, flavours actually improve after a day in the fridge. - How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. - Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. - What can I serve this with?
Try whole wheat pasta, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or steamed greens. - How can I reduce sodium further?
Skip or reduce olives and use no-salt-added tomatoes and broth.
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Nutrition
Per serving
Calories: 422.5kcal
Carbohydrates: 17.8g
Fiber: 5.2g
Sugar: 10.4g
Fat: 17.8g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Protein: 48.6g
Nutrition Facts
One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore
Amount per Serving
Calories
422.5
% Daily Value*
Fat
17.8
g
27
%
Saturated Fat
3.5
g
22
%
Trans Fat
0.04
g
Cholesterol
215.5
mg
72
%
Sodium
574.1
mg
25
%
Potassium
1417.4
mg
40
%
Carbohydrates
17.8
g
6
%
Fiber
5.2
g
22
%
Sugar
10.4
g
12
%
Protein
48.6
g
97
%
Vitamin C
74.5
mg
90
%
Vitamin D
0.1
µg
1
%
Calcium
79.6
mg
8
%
Iron
3.5
mg
19
%
Magnesium
95.3
mg
24
%
Zinc
4.4
mg
29
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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