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Homemade Chicken Puttanesca photo

Chicken Puttanesca

This Chicken Puttanesca is a flavor-packed Italian delight! Juicy chicken thighs simmered in a robust sauce full of garlic, olives, and anchovies.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy, One-Pot
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken Puttanesca:

  • 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for flavor and juiciness
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 4 anchovy fillets or substitute with 2 teaspoons anchovy paste
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust for spice tolerance
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste for richness
  • 1 cup kalamata olives pitted
  • 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes canned
  • 2 tablespoons capers drained
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water as alternative

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt.
  • In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add the thinly sliced garlic and anchovies. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies have melted into the oil.
  • Add the crushed red pepper flakes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute to deepen the flavor. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes, olives, capers, and chicken broth. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
  • Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up. Add the bay leaves on top. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes, remove the lid and check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken the sauce. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy skillet
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting Board

Notes

  • Consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
  • Rinse olives and capers for a less salty taste.
  • Adjust spice level by modifying crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Pair with pasta or crusty bread to enjoy the sauce.