This oven baked 3-ingredient chicken cacciatore casserole is the kind of simple family supper that feels a little special without making a mess of the whole kitchen. It leans on a classic old-world combination of chicken, peppers, onions, and tomato-rich sauce, but trims it down into an easy casserole that bakes mostly hands-off. When you need something cozy, budget-friendly, and hearty enough to put smiles around the table, this is a wonderful recipe to keep close.
Serve this saucy chicken over buttered egg noodles, fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or a pile of mashed potatoes to catch every bit of the sauce. A crisp green salad, green beans, or a loaf of warm bread also make lovely sides, and for grown-ups, a glass of red wine pairs nicely with the rich tomato flavor.
Oven Baked 3-Ingredient Chicken Cacciatore Casserole
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
2 jars (24 ounces each) cacciatore simmer sauce
1 bag (16 ounces) frozen sliced bell peppers and onions
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an oval or 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the frozen bell peppers and onions in the bottom of the baking dish, then arrange the chicken pieces on top in an even layer.
3. Pour the cacciatore simmer sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well coated.
4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, spoon some sauce over the top, and continue baking 20 to 25 minutes more, or until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.
5. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite side for soaking up the sauce.
Variations & Tips
Use dark meat for extra tenderness: Chicken thighs stay especially juicy during baking and give the casserole a richer flavor. If you use chicken breasts, check them a little sooner so they do not dry out.
Make it kid-friendly: If your family has picky eaters, chop the peppers and onions a bit smaller after cooking or use a sauce with a smoother texture. Serving it over noodles often helps little ones enjoy it more.
Add a homemade touch: Even though this is a 3-ingredient recipe, a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning, a little minced garlic, or a handful of mushrooms can make it taste even more from-scratch if you have them on hand.
Prep ahead tip: You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate it until dinnertime. If baking straight from the fridge, add a few extra minutes so it heats through evenly.