Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

In this Chicken Puttanesca Recipe, you will discover a flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs and a robust, savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold Mediterranean flavors. The combination of tomatoes, olives, and herbs creates a deliciously satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The umami-rich anchovies and the briny olives elevate the sauce to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and rich aroma, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for searing chicken and simmering sauces all in one pot, enhancing flavor development.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection without risking dryness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

• 4 anchovy filets, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/3 cup dry white apple vinegar (or chicken broth)
• 1 (28 ounce) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand

For Flavor and Garnish

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this builds a foundational layer of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed.
2. Stir in minced anchovies; cook for about 2 minutes until they dissolve into the oil.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes), being careful not to burn it.
4. Mix in tomato paste; allow it to darken slightly while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Deglaze & Simmer

1. Pour in dry white apple vinegar (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes; bring sauce to a gentle simmer.
3. Cover with a lid; reduce heat to low or medium-low. Cook for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. After simmering, uncover and allow sauce to thicken slightly for an additional 5-10 minutes if desired.
2. Taste sauce; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Chicken Puttanesca hot from the pan with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over each portion. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

Serving Chicken Puttanesca is all about enhancing its bold flavors and rich textures. This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that complement its savory notes.

With Pasta

• Serve over cooked spaghetti or linguine for a classic Italian meal. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a satisfying combination.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of freshly baked crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce and adds a lovely texture contrast.

With Salad

• A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides brightness and balances the richness of the Chicken Puttanesca. Consider using arugula or mixed greens for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and sauce over fluffy white or brown rice. This option absorbs the flavors well and makes for a hearty meal.

With Polenta

• Creamy polenta is an excellent base for Chicken Puttanesca. Its smooth texture complements the dish while adding a comforting element.

How to Perfect Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

Perfecting your Chicken Puttanesca involves attention to detail and a few key techniques that elevate this dish.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality tomatoes and olives for a richer flavor profile. San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended.

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the chicken skin to become deeply golden before flipping. This enhances flavor through caramelization.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Start small and add more if desired to suit your taste.

• Simmer Gently: Maintain a low simmer during cooking to allow flavors to meld without toughening the chicken. Patience here pays off!

• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley just before serving brightens up the dish and adds freshness, enhancing overall flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Puttanesca can enhance your dining experience with complementary flavors.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds crunch and is great for dipping into the sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients, balancing out the rich chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that pairs well with savory sauces.
5. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up all the flavorful sauce.
6. Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as an alternative to pasta; they absorb flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Chicken Puttanesca Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs need careful monitoring as they can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly leads to bland flavors. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not using quality ingredients: Cheap olive oil or canned tomatoes can compromise taste. Invest in good quality extra-virgin olive oil and San Marzano tomatoes for the best results.
• Ignoring simmering time: Rushing the simmering process can result in an underdeveloped sauce. Allow it to cook for the full 25-30 minutes for depth of flavor.
• Forgetting about freshness: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley at the end misses out on brightness. Always finish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring regularly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Chicken Puttanesca Recipe:

What is Chicken Puttanesca?

Chicken Puttanesca is a flavorful dish featuring chicken thighs simmered in a robust tomato sauce enriched with olives, capers, and anchovies.

How do I make Chicken Puttanesca spicier?

To increase heat, add more red pepper flakes while cooking. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust according to your preference.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, but be cautious with cooking times as boneless thighs tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

What can I serve with Chicken Puttanesca?

Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad also complements this dish well.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Puttanesca Recipe is rich, savory, and packed with flavors that appeal to everyone at the table. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try it today and enjoy a delightful meal that showcases vibrant Mediterranean flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Puttanesca

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of this Chicken Puttanesca Recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a vibrant sauce brimming with tomatoes, olives, and capers. This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while being easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With its rich aroma and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve it over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or atop creamy polenta for a delightful meal that celebrates hearty Italian tastes.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 anchovy filets, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down until golden brown (5-6 minutes), then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add anchovies and garlic; cook until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste.
4. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pan. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer gently for 25-30 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan; let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes if needed to thicken the sauce.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce (approximately 280g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 135mg