Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms

Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms is a fiery and flavorful dish that combines the heat of red pepper flakes with the rich, umami flavors of mushrooms and the hearty texture of chicken. This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian arrabbiata sauce, which traditionally features a spicy tomato sauce. By incorporating chicken and mushrooms, this version offers a satisfying and protein-rich meal that is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their food. Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and spicy pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress.

History

The origins of arrabbiata sauce can be traced back to the Lazio region of Italy, particularly around Rome. The word "arrabbiata" means "angry" in Italian, referring to the fiery nature of the sauce due to the generous use of red pepper flakes. Traditionally, arrabbiata sauce is served with pasta, such as penne arrabbiata. Over time, various adaptations of the sauce have emerged, incorporating different ingredients to suit personal tastes and preferences. The addition of chicken and mushrooms to arrabbiata sauce is a more modern variation, offering a hearty and nutritious twist to the classic dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
4 cups sliced mushrooms
1.5 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
0.5 tsp salt
3 cloves garlic, chopped
3 cans (8 oz (227 g) each) tomato sauce
0.75 tsp red pepper flakes
0.25 tsp salt
1 lb (454 g) large shell pasta
0.5 cup shredded ricotta salata

How to prepare

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a skillet.
Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
Push the mushrooms to one side of the skillet and add the chicken. Cook for 7 minutes or until cooked through.
Season the chicken and mushrooms with 0.25 tsp of salt.
Remove chicken and mushrooms to a plate and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the skillet and cook the garlic for 1 minute.
Stir in tomato sauce, pepper flakes, and the remaining salt.
Cook for 2 minutes.
Return the chicken and mushrooms to the skillet and heat through.
Prepare pasta following the package directions.
Drain the pasta.
Add the pasta to the skillet and toss.
Serve immediately with ricotta.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with additional mushrooms or add other vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
2. Seafood Twist: For a pescatarian variation, substitute the chicken with shrimp or scallops.
3. Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce for a creamier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the best flavor, use high-quality canned tomato sauce or, if available, make your own from fresh tomatoes.

2. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spiciness. Start with less and add more as needed.

3. Sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden brown before adding the chicken will enhance their flavor and texture.

4. To ensure the chicken is cooked through but still tender, avoid overcooking it. It should be just white all the way through when cut.

5. Adding the pasta directly to the sauce allows it to absorb more flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, directly after cooking. It can be garnished with extra shredded ricotta salata and fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a touch of freshness. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad complements the spicy and rich flavors of the arrabbiata sauce.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include sautéing and simmering. Sautéing the mushrooms and chicken ensures they are cooked through and flavorful. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Pasta: Any pasta shape can be used in place of large shell pasta. Penne or rigatoni are good options.

2. Ricotta Salata: If unavailable, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute.

3. Olive Oil: In a pinch, another vegetable oil can be used, though olive oil is preferred for its flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The arrabbiata sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat the sauce before adding freshly cooked pasta and chicken.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pasta in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful sauce, chicken, and mushrooms. Garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a Chianti complements the spicy flavors of the arrabbiata sauce. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms contains approximately 400-500 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a main meal, providing enough energy without being overly calorific.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively balanced in terms of macronutrients, with carbohydrates primarily coming from the large shell pasta. A serving of this recipe contains approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount may vary depending on the type and brand of pasta used. Whole grain pasta can be substituted for a higher fiber content.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the olive oil and the ricotta salata. Olive oil is a healthy monounsaturated fat, beneficial for heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 10-15 grams, with less than 5 grams of saturated fat, making this dish a relatively low-fat option.

Proteins

The chicken breast in this recipe provides a high-quality source of protein, making this dish particularly satisfying and muscle-friendly. Each serving contains approximately 30-35 grams of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly from the mushrooms and tomato sauce. Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium, while tomato sauce is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant. The chicken also contributes B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include dairy (ricotta salata) and gluten (pasta). Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms is a balanced and nutritious dish, offering a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in various vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for a meal.

Summary

Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms is a delicious and spicy twist on a classic Italian dish. It is nutritious, offering a good balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is versatile, with options for vegetarian, seafood, and creamier variations. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal to warm you up or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I had just finished a cooking class with a group of friends. We had spent the day learning how to make various Italian dishes, but it was this particular recipe that caught my eye.

The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and chili peppers filled the air as the chef demonstrated how to make the Arrabbiata sauce. He explained that the name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, due to the spicy nature of the dish. I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and knew that I had to try making it at home.

As soon as I returned home, I set to work gathering the ingredients for the sauce. I chopped onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, and sliced mushrooms, all while reminiscing about the fun day I had spent with my friends. The memories of laughter and good food inspired me as I cooked, stirring the sauce until it reached the perfect consistency.

The next step was to cook the chicken, which I seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. I seared the chicken in a hot pan until it was golden brown, adding it to the simmering sauce to infuse it with flavor. The smell of the sauce filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the chicken was cooked through, I added the mushrooms to the pan, allowing them to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and spicy Arrabbiata sauce was simply divine. I couldn’t wait to serve it to my family and see their reactions.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I watched as my loved ones took their first bite of the Arrabbiata sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms. Their faces lit up with delight as they savored the bold flavors of the dish. It was a moment of pure joy for me, knowing that I had created something truly special.

From that day on, the recipe for Arrabbiata Sauce with Chicken and Mushrooms became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and whenever I needed a bit of comfort food. Each time I cooked it, I thought back to that summer afternoon when I first learned how to make it, and I smiled.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making this delicious dish. Each person adds their own twist to the recipe, making it their own. But for me, the original version will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of that day so long ago, I am grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. The simple act of creating something delicious for others to enjoy has brought me so much happiness over the years. And for that, I am truly thankful.