Chicken Fra Diavolo

Introduction

Chicken Fra Diavolo is a bold and spicy Italian-American dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Southern Italian cuisine. Bursting with the heat of red pepper flakes, the richness of tomatoes, and the succulence of chicken, this dish offers a delightful culinary journey.

Background and History

Fra Diavolo, meaning “Brother Devil” in Italian, refers to a spicy and devilishly delicious sauce. Originating from the coastal regions of Southern Italy, this dish typically features seafood, but the adaptation with chicken has become a popular and equally flavorful variation in Italian-American cuisine.

Serves

4 servings

Time

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs or Breasts (1.5 lbs)

Boneless and skinless for ease.

Crushed Tomatoes (1 can – 28 oz)

Provides a rich tomato base.

Red Pepper Flakes (1-2 tsp)

Adjust to your desired level of spiciness.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

Enhances the aromatic profile.

White Wine (1/2 cup)

Adds depth and acidity.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp)

Used for sautéing.

Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)

A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.

Salt and Pepper to taste

Adjust according to your preference.

Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)

Garnish for freshness.

Instructions

Season and Sear Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Create Fra Diavolo Sauce

In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Chicken and Simmer

Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 350

Total Fat: 15g

Cholesterol: 85mg

Sodium: 700mg

Total Carbohydrates: 10g

Protein: 40g

Notes

Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Allergy Warning

Contains garlic. Adjust ingredients accordingly for dietary restrictions.