Chicken Puttanesca with Olives and Capers

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
• 2 tbsp capers
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Steps

1. 1 Cook the penne according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. 2 While the pasta cooks, season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. 3 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. 4 Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. 5 Stir in crushed tomatoes, olives, capers, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
6. 6 Return chicken to the skillet, nestling into the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
7. 7 Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
8. 8 Stir in fresh basil and cook for another minute.
9. 9 Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for pasta

Variations

• Add artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.
• For a vegan version, substitute chicken with chickpeas.

Substitutions

• Use sun-dried tomatoes if you prefer a sweeter tang.
• Substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, sauté the garlic in olive oil until it just begins to color.
• Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to maintain sauciness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

FAQ