Chicken Pizzaiola

Chicken Pizzaiola is a mouthwatering Italian classic, featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce, with hints of garlic, basil, and a touch of wine. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

The combination of tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese makes this dish a true comfort food favorite. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a simple salad, and you’ve got a delicious and satisfying meal that will surely please everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Add to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

4. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serve the chicken with sauce, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

Chicken Pizzaiola hails from Italy, where it is beloved for its simplicity and bold flavors. The name “pizzaiola” is derived from the Italian word “pizza,” referring to the type of sauce used in the dish – a rich, tomato-based sauce typically enhanced with garlic, oregano, and other herbs. While you might associate pizza with mozzarella and a crispy crust, the pizzaiola style is more about the sauce’s vibrant, tangy nature.

Though the dish is often made with chicken, variations of Pizzaiola have been popular in Italy for centuries, especially in southern regions like Naples and Campania, where tomato-based dishes are a staple of the cuisine. Traditionally, Pizzaiola was made with beef or pork, which was slowly simmered in a tomato sauce until tender. Over time, chicken became a more accessible and lighter option for home cooks, making it a go-to for families looking for a quick yet comforting meal.

The use of tomatoes in Pizzaiola has historical roots, as tomatoes were introduced to Italy in the 16th century from the Americas and became central to Italian cooking. The melding of garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes in Pizzaiola reflects the rustic, Mediterranean flavors that define much of Italian cuisine.

Variations and Adaptations

One of the beautiful aspects of Chicken Pizzaiola is how adaptable it is to various tastes and regional preferences. The core concept of the dish—chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce—remains unchanged, but there are countless variations based on local ingredients and personal preferences.

In southern Italy, especially in Naples, the Pizzaiola sauce often incorporates a splash of red wine or white wine for depth, as well as a pinch of chili flakes for heat. In contrast, more northern regions may tone down the spice and focus more on the fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, to elevate the sauce’s aromatic qualities. Some cooks will even add olives to the sauce, which pairs wonderfully with the tangy tomatoes and adds an extra layer of flavor.

For those looking to get creative in the kitchen, you can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, which meld beautifully with the tomato and garlic base. You can also experiment with different proteins like turkey, pork, or veal, each offering a unique take on the dish. For a vegan adaptation, tofu or seitan can be used as a substitute for chicken, while vegetable broths and vegan Parmesan can replace the dairy ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Pizzaiola is not only flavorful but also relatively healthy. It is a balanced meal, rich in protein from the chicken, vitamins from the tomatoes, and healthy fats from the olive oil. A typical serving of Chicken Pizzaiola (around 1 chicken breast with sauce) provides approximately:

• Calories: 320-350 kcal (depending on serving size and ingredients used)

• Protein: 30-35 grams (thanks to the chicken)

• Fat: 18-22 grams (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)

• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams (primarily from the tomatoes and any accompanying carbs like pasta)

• Fiber: 3-4 grams (from tomatoes and any vegetables or herbs added)

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue and keep you feeling full longer. The tomatoes in the sauce provide a wealth of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties. Olive oil, a staple of Mediterranean cooking, is full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken Pizzaiola is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Its rich, tomato-based sauce works beautifully with a variety of sides, making it easy to tailor the dish to your personal tastes or dietary preferences.

• Pasta: Serve it over a bed of spaghetti, penne, or linguine. The pasta will soak up the flavorful sauce, making for a filling and satisfying meal.

• Rice: If you’re looking for something lighter, serve Chicken Pizzaiola with a side of white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the tangy tomato sauce and complement the chicken’s flavors.

• Crusty Bread: For a truly Italian experience, pair your chicken with a slice of warm, crusty bread. This will allow you to dip into the sauce, making every bite more satisfying.

• Salads: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, olives, and a simple lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory chicken.

As for drink pairings, a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors of the dish perfectly. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, a sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or a lightly iced tea can also work well.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Chicken Pizzaiola turns out perfectly, here are some tips and expert advice:

1. Brown the Chicken Properly: Make sure to sear the chicken breasts until golden brown before simmering them in the sauce. This adds extra flavor and helps lock in moisture, preventing dry chicken.

2. Simmer the Sauce: Don’t rush the sauce. Let it simmer gently for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, concentrated taste.

3. Use Fresh Herbs: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried. They provide a more vibrant, aromatic flavor and elevate the dish.

4. Balance the Acid: If your tomato sauce tastes too acidic, a small pinch of sugar can help balance it out. Alternatively, a splash of red wine can add depth to the sauce.

5. Customizable Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder version, skip them altogether or reduce the amount.

Potential Health Benefits

The ingredients in Chicken Pizzaiola not only taste delicious but can also offer numerous health benefits.

• Chicken is a great source of lean protein, helping to support muscle growth, immune function, and overall health.

• Tomatoes provide an excellent dose of antioxidants, including lycopene, which has been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

• Olive oil is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for cardiovascular health and inflammation reduction.

• Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, and it may also help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.

With its balance of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, Chicken Pizzaiola can fit well into a balanced diet, making it a great choice for both flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Chicken Pizzaiola is a dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Italian home cooking: simple, flavorful, and comforting. With its tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward to prepare and will make you feel like you’re dining in a charming Italian trattoria.

So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re enjoying it with a glass of wine, over pasta, or with a side of warm bread, Chicken Pizzaiola is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.