Chicken Pizzaiola Recipe

Chicken Pizzaiola is a flavorful Italian dish combining tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato-based pizzaiola sauce, infused with garlic, oregano, and basil. It’s a rustic and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare yet tastes like a classic from an Italian trattoria. The beauty of Chicken Pizzaiola is its simplicity—perfect for both weeknight dinners and feeding a crowd. The sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, making it a versatile dish. If you're hosting, this is an excellent chicken recipe for a crowd, offering a satisfying balance of protein and flavor.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease. If you prefer, thighs also work well for a juicier result.
• Pizzaiola Sauce: A combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and basil. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned if desired.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a robust flavor, but any oil will work.
• Mozzarella: For a cheesy topping, you can add mozzarella. Parmesan is also a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Directions

• Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the chicken on both sides until golden. Set aside.
• Make the Pizzaiola Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken.
• Add the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s coated in the pizzaiola sauce. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
• Optional Cheese Topping: If using mozzarella, add slices on top of the chicken in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cover until the cheese melts.
• Finish & Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and serve hot, with sauce spooned over the chicken.
• Pairing: Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

Pro Tips

• For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer for longer before adding the chicken.
• If you want a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.