Chicken Fra Diavolo Recipe

Chicken Fra Diavolo is a delicious and spicy Italian-American dish that translates to “Brother Devil” in English. The name aptly describes the fiery nature of this recipe, which is characterized by a rich tomato sauce infused with red pepper flakes. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals, Chicken Fra Diavolo is both flavorful and easy to prepare. This recipe combines tender chicken with a spicy, savory sauce, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow this guide to create a mouthwatering Chicken Fra Diavolo that will impress your family and friends.

1. Ingredients for Chicken Fra Diavolo

To prepare Chicken Fra Diavolo, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of heat and flavor in the Chicken Fra Diavolo. The red pepper flakes provide the signature spiciness, while the herbs and tomatoes contribute to the rich and aromatic sauce. Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.

2. Preparing the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts for the Chicken Fra Diavolo. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a portion of the red pepper flakes. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This initial searing helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a nice crust, which adds texture to the final dish.

3. Making the Spicy Tomato Sauce

The spicy tomato sauce is the heart of Chicken Fra Diavolo. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half, then add the crushed tomatoes, remaining red pepper flakes, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and thicken.

4. Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce has simmered and developed its flavors, it’s time to combine it with the chicken. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure they are well coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs the flavors of the spicy tomato sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful. While the chicken simmers, you can occasionally baste it with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Preparing the Pasta

While the chicken is simmering in the sauce, it’s time to prepare the pasta to serve with your Chicken Fra Diavolo. You can choose your favorite type of pasta, but spaghetti or linguine work particularly well with this dish. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. You can toss the cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Serving the Chicken Fra Diavolo over a bed of pasta helps to balance the heat of the dish and makes it a complete meal.

6. Serving Suggestions

Chicken Fra Diavolo can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your dining experience. For a classic presentation, serve the chicken breasts on a bed of pasta, with the spicy tomato sauce generously spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil for a burst of color and added freshness. You can also serve this dish with a side of garlic bread to help soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the spiciness of the Chicken Fra Diavolo, providing a refreshing contrast. Pairing this dish with a glass of white wine or a light red wine can also enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Chicken Fra Diavolo is a flavorful and spicy dish that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. With its rich tomato sauce and tender chicken, it’s a recipe that is sure to impress. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious Chicken Fra Diavolo that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bold flavors and the satisfying heat of this classic Italian-American favorite. Bon appétit!