Name: Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 medium onion (chopped); 6 cloves garlic (minced); 3/4 cup dry white wine; 1 (28-ounce) can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 16 ounces DeLallo Orecchiette Pasta; 2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken; 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 handful fresh basil (chopped or torn); Pepper (to taste); Freshly grated parmesan cheese (to taste)

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The aroma of Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta wafts through the kitchen, a delightful symphony of sizzling garlic and the subtle zing of crushed red pepper. Picture a bowl of perfectly cooked orecchiette cradling tender pieces of chicken in a spicy, velvety sauce, garnished with vibrant fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan. You can almost feel the warmth of the dish wrapping around you like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. It’s that inviting mixture of comfort and excitement that makes this dish so special.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta

I remember the first time I attempted to recreate this spicy delight; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and my kitchen transformed into a culinary haven. My friends gathered around, eagerly awaiting the feast, and the laughter that followed was as memorable as the flavors we savored. This Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta is perfect for nights when you crave something hearty yet vibrant. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s whip up some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with a bold combination of spicy, savory tomato sauce, and tender chicken.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and textures will impress anyone you serve it to.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or a casual date night.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily modify for gluten-free or dairy-free needs by selecting suitable pasta and cheese alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil: A staple for sautéing that adds a rich flavor; feel free to use avocado oil for a lighter touch.
1/2 medium onion (chopped): This deglazes beautifully and gives a sweet base to the sauce. You could substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
6 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for that aromatic punch; fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
3/4 cup dry white wine: Adds depth and acidity; if you prefer not to cook with wine, use additional chicken broth instead.
1 (28-ounce) can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet and flavorful; any high-quality crushed tomatoes will do.
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste): Spice it up! Adjust based on your heat tolerance or leave it out for a milder dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano; fresh herbs can add a delightful flavor twist.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: This enhances the dish with a warm, earthy essence. Fresh oregano works, but use about three times the amount.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust based on dietary needs.
16 ounces DeLallo Orecchiette Pasta: These little “ears” hold the sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with penne or farfalle.
2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken: A massive timesaver and adds hearty protein; you can also use grilled chicken if you prefer.
1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: This fresh herb brings a pop of color and brightness; cilantro can be an exciting alternative.
1 handful fresh basil (chopped or torn): Nothing beats the fragrance of fresh basil; it elevates the entire dish.
Pepper (to taste): Freshly cracked will give the best flavor; season to your personal preference.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (to taste): A finishing touch that adds creaminess and saltiness; try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta

Sauté the Aromatics: In a Dutch oven or heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5–7 minutes. You want them to soften and turn lightly golden, filling the kitchen with a sweet fragrance. Then, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until it’s fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic can taste bitter, and we want that lovely garlic flavor to shine.

Add the Wine: Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the dry white wine. Allow it to simmer vigorously until reduced by half, which should take about 3–4 minutes. This step is crucial as it concentrates the flavors, making the sauce richer and more complex. You’ll see it bubbling and hear that lovely sizzle!

Combine the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, oregano, and salt. As the mix starts bubbling gently, cover it with a lid slightly ajar to let some steam escape. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil. Drop in the orecchiette and cook according to the package directions for al dente tenderness. Remember to save about a cup of that hot pasta water before you drain it; it’s liquid gold for adjusting your sauce!

Add in the Chicken: After the sauce has simmered and your kitchen smells divine, stir in the shredded chicken and let it warm through for a few minutes. This ensures the chicken absorbs some of those spicy, rich flavors of the sauce.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Toss in the chopped parsley and basil into the sauce, stirring gently. These fresh herbs add a lovely brightness to the rich sauce, both in flavor and visual appeal. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed; your taste buds are the best judges!

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the orecchiette, adding it directly to the pot with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick. You want it to cling to the pasta without being overly soupy; a well-coated bite is the goal!

Serve & Enjoy: Dish up your Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and watch as your family or guests savor every bite!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive it. Just bear in mind that the texture may slightly change after freezing, but the flavors will still be fabulous!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the pasta; remember, it will continue to cook a bit after being added to the sauce.
Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor to your dish.
Always taste your sauce before serving; sometimes a little extra seasoning can make all the difference.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer uncovered so that it can reduce; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color!

If you’ve made it this far, you’re ready to dive into a bowl of gorgeous, zesty Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta! This dish is a fantastic blend of comforting ingredients and vibrant flavors, absolutely perfect for sharing or indulging solo. It’s a recipe that invites creativity, allowing you to adjust the spice levels to fit your tastes. Cooking can be a delicious adventure, so go ahead and enjoy the process!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, just combine them on the stovetop, adding a little pasta water to warm it up. This is a great way to streamline dinner on busy nights!

What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile. You can make it vegetarian by using chickpeas or tofu for protein. Adjust cooking times accordingly, particularly with seafood, which cooks faster than chicken.

How can I adjust the spice level?

The fantastic thing about Chicken Fra Diavolo Pasta is its customizable heat! Start with the suggested amount of crushed red pepper flakes, then gradually add more based on your preference. You can also try adding a bit of diced fresh chili for a different type of heat.

What’s the best way to ensure my pasta doesn’t get mushy?

Cooking the pasta al dente is key. Remember to drain it promptly when it reaches that point. Rinsing pasta can wash away some flavor and starch, so don’t rinse unless you’re making a cold pasta salad. Also, adding it directly to the sauce helps prevent it from sitting in water and overcooking.