Chicken Calabrese Recipe Easy and Delicious Dinner Idea

Chicken Calabrese is a hearty and flavorful Italian-American dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich tomato sauce loaded with bell peppers, onions, and Italian herbs, this recipe brings a taste of Calabria’s rustic charm right into your kitchen.

The bold flavors meld beautifully, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Italian cuisine, this Chicken Calabrese recipe is straightforward, delicious, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Calabrese recipe is a perfect balance of simple ingredients and robust flavors. The juicy chicken breasts soak up the tangy tomato sauce infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and sweet bell peppers, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly, yet it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize the vegetables or spice level to your liking.

This recipe is comforting, nutritious, and a fantastic way to bring authentic Italian flavors to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs or spatula for flipping chicken

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sear the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. They don’t need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and peppers are tender.
5. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red chili flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Deglaze and build the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato and pepper sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Finish and garnish: Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken for a few minutes if needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving.

Try adding sliced mushrooms or olives for extra depth of flavor.

If you prefer spicy food, increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

For gluten-free options, serve with rice, polenta, or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional noodles.

Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or wraps – just shred the chicken and sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Calabrese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over al dente spaghetti or your favorite pasta to soak up the rich tomato sauce.

For a lighter meal, try it with steamed rice or creamy polenta. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments to balance the flavors.

Don’t forget a side of warm, crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that delicious sauce. For more meal ideas, you might enjoy our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or explore the comforting options in All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas.

Conclusion

Chicken Calabrese is a delightful dish that brings the warmth and bold flavors of Italian home cooking to your table with ease. Its combination of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and aromatic tomato sauce makes it a versatile recipe that fits any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients without spending hours in the kitchen.

Give this recipe a try, and you might find yourself reaching for it again and again. For more delicious and easy recipes, check out our Baked Chicken and Veggies Recipe Copper Pan Delight.

Happy cooking!

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