Chicken Penne Arrabbiata: 30 Minutes to Spicy Bliss

Chicken Penne Arrabbiata: Spicy Bliss

Chicken Penne Arrabbiata is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors, perfect for anyone craving a dish with a fiery kick. This popular Italian-American fusion brings together tender chicken pieces, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, spicy tomato sauce. It’s the kind of comforting yet exciting dish that quickly becomes a household staple, offering a delightful balance of savory chicken, tangy tomatoes, and just the right amount of heat. If you enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures, this penne arrabbiata dish is guaranteed to please your palate. It also pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of that amazing sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

You’ll absolutely love this chicken penne arrabbiata for its incredibly satisfying taste and straightforward preparation. The magic lies in its perfect harmony: succulent chicken breast, perfectly textured penne, and a vibrant arrabbiata sauce that sings with garlic, rich crushed tomatoes, and the unmistakable warmth of red pepper flakes. Each forkful delivers a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more. It’s also a versatile meal, easily adaptable to different palates, ensuring everyone at your table finds something to appreciate. For another delicious chicken meal, consider our Easy Honey Garlic Chicken, offering a different flavor profile.

Quick and Easy Meal Idea

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor is gold. This easy chicken pasta recipe fits the bill perfectly. From prep to plate, you can have a gourmet-tasting meal ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want something homemade and delicious without the fuss. It’s a fantastic alternative to takeout and allows you to control the freshness and quality of your ingredients. Plus, it uses common pantry staples, so you likely have most of what you need on hand. For more quick recipe inspiration, be sure to check out our Pinterest page.

Gather Your Penne Arrabbiata Ingredients

Creating a truly authentic and flavorful chicken penne arrabbiata starts with selecting quality ingredients. While the dish is simple, the impact of each component is significant. We focus on fresh, accessible items that build layers of taste, from the hearty base to the zesty finish. Paying attention to these foundational elements will ensure your spicy chicken pasta is absolutely delicious and deeply satisfying for every diner.

Main Pasta and Protein Needs

For the pasta, penne is the traditional and best choice for this arrabbiata sauce recipe. Its tubular shape and ridged surface are excellent for catching and holding the rich, spicy sauce. Look for high-quality durum wheat penne for the best texture. As for protein, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook quickly, absorb flavors well, and provide a lean, satisfying element to the dish. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving. If you’re curious about different types of pasta, Wikipedia offers a great resource on Penne pasta.

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh Herbs and Spice Essential

The heart of any arrabbiata sauce lies in its bold aromatics and spices. Fresh garlic, finely minced, provides a pungent base, while red pepper flakes deliver the signature heat. The star of the sauce is undoubtedly crushed tomatoes; opt for good quality, canned Italian crushed tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Finally, fresh basil, stirred in at the end, adds a burst of fragrant, herbaceous freshness that brightens the entire dish and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Making This Chicken Penne Arrabbiata Dish

Preparing this easy chicken pasta is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. The key is to manage your time efficiently, ensuring both the chicken and pasta are perfectly cooked while the sauce simmers to flavorful perfection. By following these steps, you’ll create a harmonious dish where every component shines, bringing a genuine taste of Italy’s fiery spirit right to your dining table. The method is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Prepare Chicken and Pasta First

Start by getting your chicken ready. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for your penne. Getting these two elements prepped early on helps streamline the entire cooking process, making it much more efficient. While the pasta water heats, you can begin the initial steps of browning your chicken, saving valuable time and keeping your kitchen organized for a smooth cooking experience.

Important Steps for Great Flavor

The foundation of great flavor for this chicken penne arrabbiata begins with proper browning of the chicken. Heating olive oil in a large skillet and searing the chicken until golden brown creates a deeply savory base. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns rather than steams. After the chicken is cooked through and removed from the pan, the remaining fond (browned bits) will be used to build the rich arrabbiata sauce. This initial browning step is crucial for adding depth and a delicious, caramelized note to your easy chicken pasta, setting the stage for the bold flavors to come.

Simple Steps to Cook Your Pasta

Cooking pasta might seem simple, but achieving that perfect “al dente” texture is an art. It’s crucial for any pasta dish, especially one where the pasta needs to hold up to a robust sauce like arrabbiata. Undercooked pasta is too firm, while overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its appeal. Following the right technique ensures your penne is firm to the bite, yet tender, providing the ideal foundation for your spicy chicken pasta. This attention to detail elevates the entire meal from good to outstanding, making every forkful a pleasure.

Boiling Penne Al Dente

Once your pot of salted water is at a vigorous boil, add the penne pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Refer to the package instructions for cooking times, but generally, penne takes about 10-12 minutes to reach an al dente texture. Al dente means “to the tooth”—the pasta should be cooked through but still have a slight bite and firmness in the center. Taste a piece of pasta about a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to check for doneness. When ready, drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This reserved water is a secret weapon, useful for adjusting the consistency of your sauce later, if needed, helping it adhere perfectly to the penne.

Cooking the Chicken Arrabbiata Sauce

The arrabbiata sauce is the fiery heart of this chicken penne arrabbiata. It’s a sauce known for its bold, spicy character, derived from simple yet powerful ingredients. Building this sauce correctly involves layering flavors, starting with perfectly seared chicken and then incorporating aromatic garlic and chili flakes, before simmering rich tomatoes. Each step contributes to a robust, deeply satisfying sauce that coats every piece of penne and chicken beautifully, ensuring a harmonious and incredibly tasty easy chicken pasta. This process ensures the sauce develops its signature depth and spice that makes it so beloved.

Brown Chicken in Skillet

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t worry about any browned bits sticking to the bottom of the pan; these are packed with flavor and will be incorporated into the sauce. This browning step adds a wonderful caramelized note to the chicken, creating a savory foundation for your arrabbiata sauce recipe and enhancing the overall depth of the dish. For more delicious dinners, check out our collection of recipes.

Add Garlic and Pepper Flakes

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the same skillet (add a touch more olive oil if needed). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Burning the garlic will make it bitter, so keep a close eye on it. This step is crucial for releasing the potent aromas and flavors of the garlic and chili, infusing the oil with their essence and laying down the spicy base for your arrabbiata sauce. The pepper flakes are what give this spicy chicken pasta its authentic kick.

Simmer Crushed Tomatoes Slowly

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this is called deglazing and adds immense flavor to your sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, robust arrabbiata sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste after it has simmered, as the flavors will concentrate.

30 Minutes to Spicy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

With your chicken cooked and your arrabbiata sauce simmering, you’re just moments away from a truly satisfying meal. The final steps involve bringing all these wonderful components together, allowing them to meld into a cohesive, flavorful whole. This stage is quick and rewarding, transforming individual ingredients into a complete and vibrant dish that is both hearty and refreshingly spicy. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this easy chicken pasta comes together to deliver such incredible taste, making it ideal for even the busiest schedules.

Combining Sauce and Cooked Pasta

Once the sauce has simmered and deepened in flavor, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Then, add the drained penne pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta and chicken are completely coated with the rich arrabbiata sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This starchy water helps the sauce cling better to the penne, enhancing every bite of your spicy chicken pasta. For another excellent pasta choice, try our Salmon Spinach Pasta Dish.

Stir in Fresh Basil Last

Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil. The heat from the pasta and sauce will gently wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic oils and adding a vibrant, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the tomatoes and the spice of the chili. Fresh basil is an absolute must for this dish, as its bright, peppery flavor perfectly complements the robust arrabbiata sauce, elevating the entire chicken penne arrabbiata. A quick stir, and your beautiful, spicy chicken pasta is ready to be plated and enjoyed immediately.

Your Quick Chicken Penne Arrabbiata Recipe

This streamlined recipe ensures you can create a delicious and fiery chicken penne arrabbiata without spending hours in the kitchen. We’ve broken it down into clear, actionable steps, from preparing your ingredients to the final flourishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this easy chicken pasta recipe is designed for success. Follow these instructions closely, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that perfectly balances spice and savory notes, making it a new favorite for your quick weeknight dinner rotation. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic, homemade Italian classic.

Full Ingredient List Summary

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
6. Stir in the fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serving Suggestions for Your Dish

The beauty of chicken penne arrabbiata lies in its versatility. While it’s a complete meal on its own, a few simple additions can elevate the dining experience, adding extra layers of flavor and visual appeal. These suggestions enhance the richness and freshness of the dish, making each serving a more delightful experience. Consider these complementary elements to truly round out your spicy chicken pasta, ensuring it’s a memorable meal for everyone gathered around your table.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a classic and highly recommended addition to your chicken penne arrabbiata. The salty, nutty notes of Parmesan beautifully complement the spicy, tangy arrabbiata sauce, adding a creamy richness that enhances the overall flavor profile. It’s not just for taste; it also adds a lovely visual finish. Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-shredded varieties for the best texture and flavor. It simply melts better and tastes richer, bringing a gourmet touch to your easy chicken pasta.

Add Extra Fresh Basil

Beyond incorporating fresh basil into the sauce, consider garnishing each serving with a few extra fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of chopped basil. This adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, aromatic fragrance right before serving. The uncooked basil provides a contrasting herbaceous note that brightens the rich tomato sauce and spicy chicken, offering a pleasant counterpoint to the heat. This simple addition elevates the presentation and the sensory experience of your homemade spicy chicken pasta. Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram!

Customize Your Arrabbiata Spice Level

One of the best aspects of making your own chicken penne arrabbiata is the freedom to tailor the spice level to your personal preference. Whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a fiery kick, adjusting the heat is simple and allows you to enjoy this spicy chicken pasta exactly how you like it. Don’t be shy about experimenting a little to find your perfect balance. This customization ensures that every bite is enjoyable and aligns with what you and your family prefer, making this arrabbiata sauce recipe a truly adaptable meal for all.

Adjust Red Pepper Flakes

The primary source of heat in arrabbiata sauce comes from red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon. If you love a significant kick, don’t hesitate to use a full teaspoon or even more. It’s always easier to add more spice than to take it away, so taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust accordingly. Remember that the heat will intensify slightly as the sauce reduces. For those new to spicy cooking, starting conservatively and adding gradually is key. The term “arrabbiata” itself means “angry” in Italian, referring to the sauce’s fiery nature, as explained on Wikipedia.

Other Heat Options to Try

Beyond red pepper flakes, there are other ways to infuse more heat into your chicken penne arrabbiata. For a fresh, pungent spice, consider adding a finely minced fresh red chili (such as a bird’s eye chili or serrano pepper) along with the garlic. For a deeper, smoky heat, a pinch of smoked paprika can add an interesting dimension. A dash of cayenne pepper can also provide an instant boost of heat. If you want to keep the dish mild for some and spicy for others, you can offer additional red pepper flakes or a hot chili oil at the table for individual customization.

Nutrition Facts: Penne Arrabbiata Meal

Understanding the nutritional content of your chicken penne arrabbiata can help you fit this delicious meal into your dietary goals. While specific values can vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes, we provide general estimates to give you an idea of what this spicy chicken pasta offers. This information is intended as a guide to help you make informed choices, acknowledging that homemade meals often allow for better control over ingredients and preparation methods compared to restaurant versions.

Calories and Protein Per Serving

A typical serving of chicken penne arrabbiata, based on an average recipe, can provide approximately 450-600 calories. This can fluctuate depending on the amount of pasta, chicken, and olive oil used. The chicken contributes a significant amount of protein, making this a satisfying and muscle-building meal. You can expect around 35-45 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the lean chicken breast, which helps with satiety and energy levels throughout your day. Adjusting chicken portion sizes can easily modify these protein estimates.

Fat and Carb Breakdown

The fat content in chicken penne arrabbiata primarily comes from the olive oil used for cooking and any optional cheese added. A serving might contain roughly 15-25 grams of fat, with much of it being healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil. Carbohydrates are largely supplied by the penne pasta and, to a lesser extent, the tomatoes. Expect approximately 50-70 grams of carbohydrates per serving, providing sustained energy. This dish offers a balanced macronutrient profile, making it a great option for a wholesome and energetic easy chicken pasta meal.

Store Leftovers and Meal Prep Tips

One of the many advantages of this chicken penne arrabbiata is how well it stores, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping or simply enjoying delicious leftovers. Proper storage ensures your spicy chicken pasta remains fresh and flavorful for days, saving you time and effort on future meals. By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your dish and have a ready-to-eat, satisfying option whenever hunger strikes, reaffirming its status as a fantastic quick weeknight dinner solution.

Fridge Storage for Days

Once your chicken penne arrabbiata has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, the dish will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which can dry out the pasta and affect the sauce’s flavor. This makes it perfect for packing in lunchboxes or having a convenient dinner ready after a busy day, preserving the rich tastes of your easy chicken pasta.

Best Practices for Reheating

For the best reheating results, transfer individual portions of your chicken penne arrabbiata to a microwave-safe dish or a saucepan on the stovetop. When using a microwave, cover the dish and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. On the stovetop, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the saucepan, cover, and heat over medium-low heat until warm, stirring occasionally. This helps to rehydrate the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out, ensuring your reheated spicy chicken pasta tastes almost as good as fresh.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

Achieving a truly outstanding chicken penne arrabbiata involves more than just following the steps; it’s about understanding the nuances that elevate a good dish to a great one. These tips focus on ingredient quality, cooking techniques, and creative variations to help you consistently produce a spicy chicken pasta that impresses every time. By paying attention to these details, you’ll master this easy chicken pasta recipe and be able to confidently adapt it to your preferences, making each preparation a success.

Using Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final taste of your chicken penne arrabbiata. For the arrabbiata sauce, opt for high-quality canned crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano if available, as they offer a richer, sweeter flavor profile. Fresh garlic and basil are non-negotiable for their vibrant aromatics. Similarly, a good quality olive oil can make a difference in the overall depth of flavor. While this is an easy chicken pasta, using premium ingredients ensures a restaurant-quality taste, making every bite count.

Pasta Cooking Al Dente

As emphasized earlier, cooking your penne al dente is paramount. Overcooked pasta becomes soft and mushy, failing to hold up to the robust arrabbiata sauce. Always taste your pasta a minute or two before the package suggests to ensure it has that perfect slight bite. This texture not only enhances the eating experience but also allows the pasta to better absorb the sauce without becoming waterlogged. Properly cooked pasta is a hallmark of any great pasta dish, ensuring your spicy chicken pasta is perfectly balanced.

Flavor Variations to Explore

While the classic chicken penne arrabbiata is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations. Add some sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables. For a richer sauce, stir in a touch of heavy cream at the end. You could also swap chicken for Italian sausage or shrimp for a different protein twist. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano along with the basil can also introduce new aromatic dimensions. These adjustments can tailor the dish to your liking, offering endless possibilities for your easy chicken pasta, much like our Crispy Parmesan Chicken provides another delightful flavor profile.