Creamy Chicken all’Arrabbiata takes a beloved Italian classic and adds a luxurious twist with tender chicken and a creamy, garlicky tomato sauce. The red pepper flakes and sambal oelek give the dish its signature fiery heat, while the cream tones down the spice just enough to create a rich, satisfying balance. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice but also crave the comfort of a creamy pasta dish, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends. The result is a bold, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 9 ounces penne
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 14 ounces chicken fillets, cut into bite-size chunks
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sambal oelek (adjust to taste)
- 5.5 ounces cherry tomatoes
- 1 ¾ cups puréed tomatoes
- ½ cup cream (20% fat)
- 2 ounces grated Parmesan (more for serving)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Directions:
- Boil penne in generously salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup cooking water.
- Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and shallot, cooking for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, sage, and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping the skillet to release brown bits.
- Stir in tomato paste and sambal oelek, cooking for 1 minute until the mixture darkens.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cook for 2 minutes. Then add puréed tomatoes and bring to a boil. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Cook for 1 minute. If the sauce is too dry, add reserved pasta water.
- Toss with penne to coat, and serve with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 600 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- The Perfect Balance of Spice and Creaminess
One of the key reasons this version of Chicken all’Arrabbiata is so special is the balance between fiery heat and soothing creaminess. The traditional Arrabbiata sauce is known for its bold spice, but this recipe brings a velvety smoothness by incorporating heavy cream. This mellows the sharp heat of the chili, creating a more nuanced and rounded flavor profile. It’s still spicy enough to excite your taste buds, but not so overpowering that you can’t enjoy the other flavors. - Tender, Juicy Chicken
Adding chicken to this pasta dish makes it not only heartier but also adds protein, making it a more complete meal. Chicken fillets are lightly browned to lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in succulent, tender bites that pair beautifully with the creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re a fan of chicken or simply looking for a more filling meal option, this addition makes the dish incredibly satisfying. - Quick and Easy to Make
With a total cooking time of about 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time but still want something that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry: olive oil, garlic, shallots, chicken broth, canned tomatoes, and Parmesan. It’s also flexible, allowing you to adjust the heat level and experiment with different vegetables or even pasta shapes. - Health Benefits
Despite its creamy texture, this dish is relatively balanced nutritionally. The chicken adds lean protein, while the tomatoes bring in antioxidants, especially lycopene, known for its cancer-fighting properties. Using olive oil also adds heart-healthy fats, and if you opt for whole-grain pasta, you can increase the fiber content of the meal, aiding digestion and maintaining blood sugar levels. - Versatility for Dietary Preferences
Another benefit of Creamy Chicken all’Arrabbiata is its adaptability. For instance, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Additionally, this dish works well with gluten-free pasta, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The creaminess can also be adjusted for dairy-free diets by swapping out the cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, without compromising on flavor. - A Rich Culinary History
The beauty of this recipe lies in its connection to Italian culinary tradition while embracing modern adaptations. The classic Arrabbiata sauce, originating from the Lazio region of Italy, is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Italians often favor recipes that make use of fresh, simple ingredients, focusing on the quality of each element rather than complicated preparation methods. This respect for the ingredients is evident in the way the garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper flakes create the base of the sauce. By incorporating chicken and cream, this dish evolves into something more suited to modern palates without losing its roots.
Serving Suggestions
While this dish is perfectly delicious on its own, there are a few ways to elevate it even further:
- Serve with Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the dish. Consider a side of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a light lemon dressing.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Don’t forget to finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. The freshness of the herbs brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color to the plate.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of garlic bread or a rustic loaf to soak up any extra sauce. This also adds a crunchy texture to balance the creaminess of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, this dish pairs wonderfully with a light to medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a Sangiovese. The acidity of the wine complements the richness of the sauce, cutting through the cream while enhancing the tomato and chili notes.
Customization Tips
This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to tweak it according to your preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Simply omit the chicken and replace it with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add spinach or arugula to the sauce for some extra greens.
- Add Some Greens: If you want to sneak more veggies into the dish, you can toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale just before serving. The greens will wilt into the sauce and add more nutrients without altering the flavor too much.
- Turn Up the Heat: If you love spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even fresh chilies. You can also experiment with different types of chili paste, such as harissa or Calabrian chili, for a unique flavor twist.
- Different Proteins: If chicken isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for turkey, pork, or even shrimp. Ground chicken or turkey also works well, especially if you’re looking for a quicker cooking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the dish even tastier the next day.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Simply portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a pan on medium-low heat and add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Conclusion
There are plenty of pasta dishes out there, but what makes this Creamy Chicken all’Arrabbiata stand out is its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and its adaptability to different diets and tastes. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for something rich, spicy, and comforting while still feeling fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it to guests, it’s sure to impress. Plus, the recipe’s simplicity means it can be enjoyed by anyone, from beginner cooks to experienced home chefs. It’s a foolproof way to bring the taste of Italy to your kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.
