Are you ready to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure? This Spicy Chicken in Tomatoes recipe is not just a meal—it's a journey through bold, vibrant flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine. With a perfect balance of crispy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and a kick of red pepper flakes, this dish promises to be your new go-to comfort food that's both incredibly easy to make and impressively delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to become hot and shimmering.
- Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves before serving.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious spicy tomato sauce.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown skin that locks in maximum flavor.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven for even heat distribution and better browning of the chicken.
- Don't rush the skin-crisping process—allow 5-6 minutes for that perfect golden color and texture.
- Fresh basil is key! Add it just before serving to maintain its bright, aromatic flavor.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of dried oregano to the tomato sauce.
- Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to become extra tender.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 248kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
