Name: Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 to 2 lbs skin on bone-in chicken thighs; 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1–2 Tablespoons DeLallo Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 to 5 DeLallo Anchovy Fillets, chopped or 3 teaspoons anchovy paste; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 Tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 (28-ounce) can DeLallo Whole San Marzano Style Tomatoes, crushed; 3 Tablespoons DeLallo Nonpareil Capers, divided; 1/2 cup DeLallo Jumbo Seasoned Pitted Kalamata Olives or green olives, sliced; Chopped Italian parsley; Whole Kalamata olives; Cracked black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving a bold, flavorful dish that comes together quickly yet feels like a special occasion, this Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe is absolutely going to win your heart and your dinner table. With perfectly seared chicken thighs bathed in a rich, savory tomato sauce loaded with briny olives, capers, and anchovies, each bite bursts with Mediterranean charm and umami goodness. This recipe is a delightful blend of simple ingredients that transform into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing friends without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with two large light pink raw chicken pieces sitting on a white marbled surface. To the left, there is a white bowl of green and black olives, a small white bowl with green capers, and a greenish bowl with salt and black pepper. Above these bowls are fresh green parsley leaves. To the right of the pan are two white bowls filled with bright red diced tomatoes in sauce. A bottle of water with a pull tab lies horizontally in the center on the white marble surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from the tender chicken thighs that soak up flavors, to the salty capers and olives that add a pop of zest and color, creating a harmonious and tempting dish.

Chicken Thighs (1 1/2 to 2 lbs, skin on, bone-in): These provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender when cooked in the skillet.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon each): Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
DeLallo Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1–2 Tablespoons): Adds richness and helps achieve a crispy golden skin.
Garlic (3–4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
Anchovy Fillets or Paste (4-5 fillets or 3 teaspoons paste): A signature ingredient that melts into the sauce to deliver irresistible umami.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle kick to balance the savory flavors.
Tomato Paste (2 Tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor, thickening the sauce beautifully.
Dried Oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant, herby note to the dish.
Crushed Whole San Marzano Style Tomatoes (1 28-ounce can): The heart of the sauce, lending a rich and slightly sweet base.
DeLallo Nonpareil Capers (3 Tablespoons, divided): Adds a tangy, briny pop that brightens the sauce.
DeLallo Jumbo Seasoned Pitted Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup, sliced): Offers a fruity and salty punch.
Garnish (chopped Italian parsley, whole Kalamata olives, cracked black pepper): Freshens and visually elevates the final dish.

How to Make Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up beautifully in the skillet. Generously sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and black pepper to build the foundational flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the chicken thighs skin-side down without moving them, allowing the skin to get perfectly golden and crispy in about 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, then remove the chicken and set it aside for the sauce step.

Step 3: Build the Puttanesca Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic, chopped anchovy fillets (or paste), and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook gently, stirring occasionally for around 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies dissolve into the oil, offering that deep umami punch we all love.

Step 4: Add Tomato Elements and Seasonings

Stir in tomato paste and dried oregano, cooking for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Pour in the crushed San Marzano-style tomatoes and mix thoroughly to combine with the paste, creating a luscious base for the sauce to develop.

Step 5: Incorporate Capers, Olives, and Chicken

Add 2 tablespoons of capers and all the sliced Kalamata olives to the sauce, then nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet. Partially cover the pan and simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tenderly infused with the sauce’s bold flavors.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Give the sauce a taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of capers over the top for fresh bursts of flavor. Remove from heat, then garnish with chopped Italian parsley, whole Kalamata olives, and a crack of black pepper for a stunning finish.

How to Serve Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with two main layers: the bottom layer is a bed of orange-yellow rice mixed with dark olives and small green herbs, while the top layer features a golden, crispy piece of cooked chicken seasoned with herbs. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the right side under the chicken. Nearby, a small white bowl holds chopped green herbs, and in the upper right corner, a white pan contains more of the rice and tomato mix with a silver spoon resting in it. Small scattered green herb pieces decorate the marbled surface around the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Chopped Italian parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish beautifully. Whole Kalamata olives scattered on top reinforce the briny flavor and add texture. A fresh crack of black pepper provides a slight spicy contrast that wakes up every bite.

Side Dishes

This puttanesca chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes that soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try roasted or sautéed green beans, garlic crusty bread, or even a crisp Caesar salad to balance the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving your Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe family-style straight from the pan to emphasize rustic appeal and encourage sharing. Alternatively, plate individual portions over cooked pasta or a bed of sautéed greens for an elegant twist that elevates the meal’s presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for a delicious next-day meal. Stored properly, leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cooked chicken and sauce together in a sealed container for up to 3 months. For meal prep, consider making the sauce ahead and freezing it separately—this lets you quickly reheat and add freshly cooked chicken later for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out the chicken. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used but keep in mind they will cook faster, so adjust your timing accordingly to prevent overcooking.

What if I don’t have anchovies or don’t like them?

Anchovies are key for that authentic umami flavor but you can substitute with a small amount of miso paste, fish sauce, or simply add a bit more salt to compensate. The sauce will still be delicious, just slightly different.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently then add the freshly cooked chicken when ready to serve.

What type of olives work best?

Kalamata olives are traditional and add a wonderful flavor, but you can use other green or black olives according to your preference or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Skillet Chicken Puttanesca Recipe. It’s warm, savory, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors that come together easily and quickly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is bound to become one of your favorites. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with it as much as I have!