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Chicken Puttanesca

Chicken Puttanesca
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Chicken Puttanesca is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs simmered in a vibrant sauce of ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, garlic, and fresh herbs. This protein-packed meal bursts with tangy, salty, and savory notes, making it perfect for busy weeknights and great for leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tbsp capers, drained
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Create the Puttanesca Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not burnt, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld.
  3. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld well.
  4. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the dish just before serving to add a fresh and herbaceous touch that balances the robust, briny sauce.

Notes

  • Use quality Kalamata olives for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to deepen the flavors without bitterness.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to retain their brightness.
  • Double the sauce if you prefer extra tangy and savory goodness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Puttanesca, Mediterranean chicken, quick chicken dinner, puttanesca sauce, healthy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/chicken-puttanesca/