If you’re craving a dish that combines hearty comfort with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti twirled with a rich, slightly spicy tomato sauce, tender shredded chicken, briny olives, and tangy artichokes, all finished with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a lively, soul-satisfying meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to share with friends. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list — the ingredients for the Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic garlic to the salty olives, every element adds something special to the dish.
- 320g / 11oz spaghetti: Long pasta strands perfect for twirling and soaking up that delicious sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts: Halved horizontally to make thin, quick-cooking steaks that shred beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Brings out the flavors when searing chicken and cooking garlic.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning for both chicken and sauce, balancing the flavors.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory depth essential to the sauce’s base.
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) white wine: Lifts the sauce with a subtle acidity and complexity.
- 800g / 28oz can crushed tomato: Forms the hearty, tomatoey backbone of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) water: Adds just enough moisture to balance the sauce’s consistency.
- 1 cup (100g) sliced black olives: Briny and rich, they provide that classic Sicilian punch.
- 170g / 6 oz marinated artichokes, drained: Offer a gentle tang and satisfying texture contrast.
- 1/2 – 1 tsp red pepper flakes: Adjust for the perfect amount of gentle heat or bold spice.
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper: To season the sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup basil leaves (optional): Fresh and green, these brighten the dish; baby spinach works too.
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: The ultimate finishing touch, melting into the warm pasta beautifully.
How to Make Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add your spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions, but make sure to stop one minute early so the pasta stays al dente — it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and sear for about 1 1/2 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it into bite-size pieces. You’ll add this back once the sauce is ready.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute — avoid browning as garlic can turn bitter. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any caramelized bits left from the chicken. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Now, add the crushed tomatoes, water, sliced black olives, and drained artichokes. Stir everything together and season with salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes. Let this simmer gently for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld into a beautiful sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once your sauce has reached that perfect, saucy consistency, stir the shredded chicken back into the pan to warm through. Then fold in the cooked spaghetti, making sure every strand gets coated in the vibrant sauce. For a fresh burst of color and flavor, gently tear in the basil leaves or toss in a handful of baby spinach if you like.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Plate the Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti immediately, showering the top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that irresistible salty richness. Now, you’re ready to dig into one of the most comforting and flavorful pasta dishes you’ll make this year!
How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish further, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra basil on top for a pop of green. An additional drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more, making every bite fresh and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also complement the Mediterranean flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic family-style meal, serve the pasta in a large, shallow bowl and let everyone help themselves. Alternatively, twirl the pasta on warm plates for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Adding a crack of black pepper and a pinch of chili flakes right before serving keeps the dish looking colorful and enticing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, where the flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even more delicious upon reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe, but it’s best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta for optimal texture. Store them in sealed containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the sauce and chicken gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or wine if it seems thick. Reheat the pasta briefly in boiling water or directly combine it once the sauce is hot, tossing everything together just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and ideal for twirling up the sauce, feel free to use linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. The sauce is versatile and pairs well with many shapes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions since gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
What if I don’t have white wine?
If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water mixed with a tablespoon of white wine vinegar to maintain the acidity and depth of flavor.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Definitely. Omit the chicken and maybe add extra artichokes or some sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian option. The rich tomato sauce with olives and artichokes stands well on its own.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that you can adjust according to your taste. Start with 1/2 teaspoon for mild heat and increase up to a full teaspoon if you like it spicier. It’s all about your personal preference!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Sicilian Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is like inviting a little bit of Italy into your home — rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of comforting. I promise, once you give it a try, it will quickly become a go-to for satisfying dinners that wow without much fuss. Enjoy every bite and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making this dish again and again!
