Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love bold, spicy flavors and easy pasta dishes, this recipe is for you. The heat of crushed red pepper flakes, the richness of the tomato sauce, and the juiciness of seasoned chicken come together in a simple yet powerful combination. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for spice lovers looking for a new dinner favorite. Plus, it’s customizable and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
salt and pepper
garlic cloves
crushed red pepper flakes
onion (optional)
canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
Italian seasoning or dried oregano
pasta (penne or rigatoni is traditional)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
3. In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic (and onion, if using) until fragrant.
4. Add crushed red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds to release their heat.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add Italian seasoning or oregano. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
7. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated.
8. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it ideal for a quick yet bold dinner any night of the week.

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced fresh chili.
• Creamy Twist: Add a splash of cream or cream cheese to mellow the heat and enrich the sauce.
• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add mushrooms or white beans for protein.
• Cheese Lovers: Top with mozzarella or pecorino for added richness.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over spiralized zucchini or roasted cauliflower.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy with room to adjust. Start with less red pepper and add more to taste.

What’s the best pasta for Arrabbiata?

Penne is traditional, but rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti work well too.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just shred and stir it into the sauce to heat through at the end.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to achieve a rich, saucy consistency.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of water or sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen with time, making it a great meal prep option.

What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A bold red like Chianti or Zinfandel complements the spicy tomato sauce beautifully.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Turkey, sausage, or shrimp work well in place of chicken.

How do I reduce the spice?

Cut back on the red pepper flakes or add a splash of cream to mellow the heat.

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta is the perfect dish for those who love a little heat with their pasta. With a robust tomato sauce, tender chicken, and that signature spicy kick, it’s a quick and flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Easy to make and bursting with bold flavor, this pasta brings just the right amount of heat to your table.

Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta

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Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta is a bold and fiery dish that blends tender chicken with a spicy tomato-based sauce and hearty pasta. Packed with flavor and heat, it’s perfect for spice lovers and quick weeknight dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and onion (if using) until fragrant and translucent.
5. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and coat with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen.
8. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

• Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version—just heat through in the sauce.
• Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• A splash of cream can mellow the spice and add richness.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 75mg