Description
Chicken Puttanesca is a vibrant Italian main course dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a robust sauce made from crushed tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Infused with Mediterranean flavors and fresh herbs like parsley and basil, this gluten-free skillet recipe is perfect for a hearty and satisfying dinner served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook 3–4 minutes each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Lower the heat to medium, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the halved Kalamata olives, rinsed capers, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional basil over the top just before serving. Pair with spaghetti, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve the chicken puttanesca over spaghetti, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more tender alternative.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to brighten the dish and enhance aroma.
