Chicken Arrabiata

This Chicken Arrabiata Recipe is made with bone-in chicken, onions, artichokes, Arrabiata sauce, and simmered into perfection. 

Are you a fan of bold flavors and a touch of heat in your meals? Look no further than Chicken Arrabiata, a fiery Italian dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With its roots in traditional Italian cuisine, Chicken Arrabiata showcases tender chicken enveloped in a rich and spicy tomato-based sauce. This zesty combination of flavors is sure to elevate your dinner to new heights. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or simply looking to add some excitement to your mealtime, join us on a culinary journey as we explore the tantalizing world of Chicken Arrabiata.

In this adaptation, the chicken becomes the main protein, while the Arrabbiata sauce provides the bold and fiery flavors. It's a way to incorporate the essence of Arrabbiata into a chicken dish. With this recipe, we used a dutch oven but you can use a deep pan as long as it has a cover.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Healthy Chicken Piccata or my Marry Me Chicken.

Jump to:

• What is Chicken Arrabiata?
• Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Chicken Arrabiata
• What to serve with Chicken Arrabiata
• Substitutions
• Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Chicken Arrabiata
• Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Top tips
• Chicken Arrabiata Recipe
• Food safety

What is Chicken Arrabiata?

Chicken Arrabiata, also known as Pollo all'Arrabbiata, is an Italian dish that combines chicken with a spicy tomato-based sauce. "Arrabbiata" translates to "angry" in Italian, referring to the fiery heat of the dish due to the use of red chili peppers or chili flakes.

The main components of Chicken Arrabiata typically include chicken pieces, tomatoes, garlic, onions, red chili peppers or chili flakes, and herbs such as basil or parsley. The dish is known for its bold and robust flavors.

Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Whole chicken or chicken thighs
• Onion
• Canned artichokes
• Arrabiata sauce
• Crushed rosemary
• Bay leaves
• Olive oil
• Parsley

See recipe card for Chicken Arrabiata Recipe quantities.

How to make Chicken Arrabiata

We will start by caramelizing the sliced onion, until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Set the onion aside.

What to serve with Chicken Arrabiata

• Pasta: Serve Chicken Arrabiata over a bed of al dente pasta such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. The pasta will soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying combination. Check out my Pesto Rosso Ravioli.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, make a fantastic side dish. Their caramelized flavors and tender texture provide a nice contrast to the spicy chicken. Check out my Air Fryer Zucchini Slices.
• Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the heat of the Chicken Arrabiata. It adds a refreshing and light element to the meal. Check out my Green Goddess Salad Recipe.
• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment to Italian dishes, garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser. Spread some garlic butter on a sliced baguette, toast it in the oven until golden and crispy, and enjoy it alongside the Chicken Arrabiata. Check out my Garlic Bread Recipe.
• Creamy Polenta: Creamy polenta is a comforting and versatile side dish. Its smooth and rich texture complements the bold flavors of the Chicken Arrabiata.
• Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze or olive oil is a light and refreshing option. It adds a burst of freshness to the meal. Check out my Caprese Crostini or my Caprese Skewers.

Substitutions

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of bone-in chicken thighs. They cook faster and are easier to eat. If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the chicken thighs with bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Onion: Shallots or leeks can be used as a substitute for onions. They provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor. If you don't have any onion substitutes available, you can omit them or use onion powder as a seasoning alternative.
• Canned Artichokes: If you don't have canned artichokes, you can use frozen artichoke hearts. Thaw them according to the package instructions before using. Alternatively, you can replace the artichokes with other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or zucchini for added color and texture.
• Arrabiata Sauce: If you don't have access to store-bought arrabiata sauce, you can make a homemade version by combining crushed tomatoes, garlic, red chili flakes or fresh chili peppers, olive oil, and Italian herbs such as oregano and basil. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Alternatively, you can use marinara sauce and add extra red chili flakes or hot sauce to increase the spiciness.
• Crushed Rosemary: If you don't have crushed rosemary, you can use dried oregano or thyme as a substitute. They provide a similar earthy flavor. Fresh rosemary can also be used, but use half the amount stated in the recipe since fresh herbs have a stronger flavor.
• Bay Leaves: Bay leaves add a subtle aroma to the dish, but if you don't have them available, you can omit them without significantly affecting the overall flavor.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil can be substituted with other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. Use a neutral-flavored oil that can withstand high heat.
• Parsley: If you don't have parsley, you can substitute it with fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbaceous flavor. Dried parsley can also be used as a replacement, but use half the amount stated in the recipe.

Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Variations

• Creamy Chicken Arrabiata: For a richer and creamier version, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce. Stir it in towards the end of cooking to create a luscious and velvety texture.
• Lemon Chicken Arrabiata: Brighten up the flavors by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce. The citrusy tang complements the spiciness of the Arrabiata sauce and adds a refreshing element to the dish.
• Mushroom and Chicken Arrabiata: Enhance the dish with earthy mushrooms. Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic before adding the chicken and Arrabiata sauce. The mushrooms add depth of flavor and a hearty element to the dish.
• Seafood Arrabiata: Instead of chicken, you can use seafood such as shrimp, calamari, or mussels. Add the seafood to the sauce towards the end of cooking and cook until they are just cooked through. This variation provides a delicious seafood twist to the dish.
• Spaghetti Arrabiata: Take the traditional route and serve the Chicken Arrabiata over spaghetti or your favorite pasta. The long strands of pasta help capture the sauce and create a hearty and comforting meal.

Equipment

The following equipment is needed to make my Chicken Arrabiata Recipe:

• Large pot or dutch oven: A sturdy and large pot or dutch oven will be used to cook the chicken and sauce. Choose one with a flat bottom and high sides to accommodate all the ingredients.
• Cutting Board: A cutting board is essential for preparing and chopping the ingredients, such as onions and herbs.
• Chef's Knife: A sharp chef's knife will be used for slicing and dicing the ingredients.
• Tongs or Spatula: Tongs or a spatula will come in handy for flipping and turning the chicken while it cooks.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is useful for stirring the sauce and scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Measuring Utensils: You will need measuring spoons and cups to ensure accurate measurements of ingredients such as spices, herbs, and sauce.
• Can Opener: If you are using canned artichokes, a can opener is necessary to open the can.
• Serving Dish: Choose a large serving dish or platter to present the Chicken Arrabiata.
• Optional: If you plan to garnish the dish with chopped parsley or other herbs, a pair of kitchen shears or a herb stripper can be useful for preparing them.

How to store Chicken Arrabiata

To properly store my Chicken Arrabiata Recipe, follow these steps:

1. Cool the Chicken Arrabiata: Allow the Chicken Arrabiata to cool down to room temperature before storing. Placing hot food directly in the refrigerator can raise its internal temperature, potentially affecting the overall storage environment.
2. Transfer to an Airtight Container: Transfer the Chicken Arrabiata to an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well for storing sauces. Make sure the container is large enough to hold the chicken and sauce without overflowing.
3. Refrigerate Promptly: Place the sealed container of Chicken Arrabiata in the refrigerator. Ensure that the refrigerator is set to a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety and freshness.
4. Label and Date: It's helpful to label the container with the contents and date of storage. This way, you can easily identify the dish and monitor its freshness.
5. Use Within 3-4 Days: Chicken Arrabiata can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Consume it within this time frame to ensure the best quality and taste.
6. Freezing (Optional): If you have a large batch of Chicken Arrabiata that you won't be able to consume within a few days, you can freeze it for longer storage. Transfer the cooled Chicken Arrabiata to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen Chicken Arrabiata in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. Reheat Properly: When reheating the stored Chicken Arrabiata, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any potential bacteria. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until thoroughly heated. You can also reheat it in the microwave, using short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Chicken Arrabiata Recipe Top tips

• Sear the Chicken: Before adding the chicken to the sauce, sear it in the skillet until golden brown on both sides. This step adds extra flavor and helps seal in the juices, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The spiciness of Arrabiata sauce can vary depending on personal preference. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them altogether. On the other hand, if you like it fiery, add extra chili flakes or incorporate fresh hot peppers for an added kick.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, add a burst of freshness and brightness to the dish. Sprinkle chopped herbs over the finished Chicken Arrabiata to enhance its flavors and add a touch of vibrant color.
• Simmer for Flavor Infusion: Allow the chicken to simmer in the Arrabiata sauce for a little longer to ensure the flavors meld together. The chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a more harmonious and flavorful dish.
• Season with Salt and Pepper: Taste the sauce before adding the chicken and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste and balance the flavors.
• Serve with Grated Cheese: Consider serving Chicken Arrabiata with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. The salty and nutty flavors of the cheese complement the spicy sauce and add an extra layer of richness.
• Let it Rest: Allow the cooked Chicken Arrabiata to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors settle and allows the chicken to absorb some of the sauce, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
• Accompany with Crusty Bread: Serve Chicken Arrabiata with crusty bread on the side. It's perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce and enhancing your dining experience.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.