Name: Chicken Puttanesca
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

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Chicken Puttanesca is a vibrant and savory Italian dish that will elevate your dinner table. This twist on the classic Puttanesca sauce, typically made with pasta, combines succulent chicken with the bold and tangy flavors of olives, capers, tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and quick-to-make dish, Chicken Puttanesca is your answer.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what Chicken Puttanesca is, how to make it, and why it should become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. You’ll also find tips on variations, substitutions, and a helpful FAQ section to answer all your questions.

Table of Contents

What is Chicken Puttanesca?

Chicken Puttanesca is a variation of the traditional Italian pasta dish known as Puttanesca. The original Puttanesca is a pasta dish served with a sauce made from olives, capers, anchovies, tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. It’s known for its bold and zesty flavor profile.

In Chicken Puttanesca, tender chicken is the star of the dish, taking the place of pasta. The chicken is simmered in the classic Puttanesca sauce, absorbing all of its delicious flavors. This dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal that is perfect for any night of the week.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Puttanesca

To make Chicken Puttanesca, you’ll need a few essential ingredients to get the bold, tangy flavor profile just right:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
Olives: Kalamata or green olives provide the briny kick.
Capers: Adds a salty, tangy flavor.
Garlic: The aromatic base for the sauce.
Anchovies: Provides umami and depth to the dish.
Tomatoes: Use either fresh or canned diced tomatoes for the base of the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and creating a rich, silky sauce.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil adds freshness.

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish with a balance of salty, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

How to Make Chicken Puttanesca

Making Chicken Puttanesca is quick and easy. This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts or thighs until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Puttanesca Sauce

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the anchovies and cook for another 1-2 minutes, breaking them up with a spoon as they dissolve into the oil.

Next, add the diced tomatoes, olives, capers, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs all the delicious sauce flavors. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of freshness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Chicken Puttanesca hot, paired with a side of vegetables, rice, or even a simple salad. The combination of savory chicken and tangy sauce makes this dish both satisfying and delicious.

Tips and Variations

While Chicken Puttanesca is a fantastic dish on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:

Use Chicken Thighs: For even more juicy, tender meat, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. The extra fat will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
Add Vegetables: For a more well-rounded dish, consider adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce.
Substitute Anchovies: If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can substitute with a bit of Worcestershire sauce or even a splash of soy sauce to achieve that umami flavor.
Serve with Pasta: If you miss the traditional pasta aspect, serve your Chicken Puttanesca over your favorite pasta for a heartier meal.

Health Benefits of Chicken Puttanesca

Not only is Chicken Puttanesca packed with flavor, but it also offers a variety of health benefits:

High in Protein: The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil and olives contribute healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes, garlic, and olives are all rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from oxidative stress.
Low in Carbs: Chicken Puttanesca is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Why You Should Try Chicken Puttanesca

There are plenty of reasons why you should add Chicken Puttanesca to your weekly meal rotation:

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of olives, capers, garlic, anchovies, and tomatoes creates an unforgettable, bold flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Healthy: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

FAQ About Chicken Puttanesca

What does “Puttanesca” mean?

The word “Puttanesca” translates to “in the style of the prostitute” in Italian. It is said that the dish was quick and easy to make, often prepared by women working in the streets. The bold, punchy flavors are meant to be as lively and attention-grabbing as the dish’s name.

Can I make Chicken Puttanesca ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Puttanesca ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

What can I serve with Chicken Puttanesca?

Chicken Puttanesca pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I freeze Chicken Puttanesca?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Puttanesca. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Conclusion

Chicken Puttanesca is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the bold tastes of Italian cuisine to your dinner table. The savory combination of olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes pairs perfectly with tender chicken, creating a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Chicken Puttanesca is the answer. Give it a try today and experience the incredible flavors for yourself!