Description
This bold and savory Chicken Calabrese recipe combines tender chicken breasts with spicy Calabrian chili peppers, sweet bell peppers, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals, this dish bursts with Southern Italian flavors and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, Calabrian chili paste, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired.
Serve hot with pasta, rice, or bread.
Notes
- Adjust the level of heat by using more or less Calabrian chili paste.
- Can be made ahead and reheated; flavors deepen with time.
- Add olives or capers for extra Mediterranean flair.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and veggies
- Calories: 320kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: chicken calabrese, spicy chicken recipe, Italian chicken skillet, Calabrian chili chicken, weeknight dinner