Turn up the heat with this Creamy Chicken all’Arrabbiata! A modern twist on the classic Italian arrabbiata sauce, this version combines tender chicken, fiery chili flakes, garlic, and rich tomato sauce — all finished with a touch of cream for the perfect balance of spice and silkiness.
This easy chicken pasta recipe is bold, comforting, and ready in about 30 minutes. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or whenever you crave a restaurant-style Italian meal at home.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 9 oz (250 g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- ➜ Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- ➜ Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- ➜ Make the sauce: In the same pan, add garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- ➜ Add cream and chicken: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth. Add cooked chicken back to the pan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to let flavors meld.
- ➜ Combine with pasta: Toss in cooked penne and a splash of pasta water to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- ➜ Serve: Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips & FAQs
How spicy is arrabbiata sauce?
Arrabbiata means “angry” in Italian — it’s traditionally spicy, but you can easily control the heat by adjusting chili flakes.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though it will be lighter in texture. For a creamier result, use half-and-half or add a bit more Parmesan.
What pasta works best?
Penne holds the sauce perfectly, but rigatoni, fusilli, or fettuccine also work great.
Nutrition Summary
Rich, spicy, and creamy — a comforting pasta dish with balanced protein and flavor.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 520 | 33g | 48g | 21g | 3g | 8g |
Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary based on ingredients.
