I was spring cleaning my pantry last week and found some stuff that I was not aware that I had. One of those was a jar of puttanesca sauce that I bought early this year. It came with a package of three jars. I used the other two with the spaghetti I made. I usually have spaghetti with marinara sauce and using puttanesca sauce was quite new to me. Although the two sauces were different in taste and texture, I love them both and have been using them alternately since then. Puttanesca sauce consists basically of tomatoes, olive oil, olives, anchovies, capers and garlic. I decided to use this tasty sauce on chicken and slowly cooked them in a crockpot. I browned the chicken pieces first and then along with the puttanesca sauce, I added chopped onion and garlic. After four hours of slow cooking, the chickens were tender and very tasty. Using a jar of the sauce definitely makes this dish very easy to make. They taste great with steamed rice too. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Puttanesca Chicken

To ensure your puttanesca chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker is key. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to lock in moisture. Use a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for this. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Next, consider adding a splash of red wine to the slow cooker along with the sauce. This adds depth to the flavor and complements the richness of the puttanesca sauce. Adjust the cooking time based on your chicken pieces. Thighs and drumsticks can handle longer cooking times while breasts take less time. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredient Notes for Your Puttanesca Sauce

Using quality ingredients makes all the difference in this dish. Choose a good jar of puttanesca sauce, as the flavor varies by brand. Look for one that has authentic ingredients like real anchovies and high-quality olives. If you can find it, try using Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives for a richer taste. Fresh garlic is important too; it adds a punch that pre-minced versions can’t quite match. If you prefer a kick of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. This can elevate the dish and give it that extra edge. Also, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be a great addition. Toss some in right before serving to brighten up the flavors. Remember, the more fresh and high-quality your ingredients are, the more delicious your dish will be.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving your puttanesca chicken, there are plenty of delicious options. Steamed rice is a classic choice, soaking up all the flavorful sauce, but you can also serve it over pasta for a heartier meal. A side of garlic bread works wonders too, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it on a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. If you want to add a touch of freshness, a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken. Don’t forget about the wine. A medium-bodied red like Chianti complements the dish nicely. Whatever you choose to serve, make sure to enjoy it with friends or family, as this dish is perfect for sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for puttanesca sauce?

If you don’t have puttanesca sauce on hand, marinara or arrabbiata sauce can work as a substitute. Just know that the flavors will be different, so you might want to add some olives, capers, or anchovies to bring in that puttanesca vibe.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover puttanesca chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce the night before and store them in the fridge separately. Just combine them in the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day.

What should I serve with puttanesca chicken?

This dish pairs really well with steamed rice, but you could also serve it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A light salad on the side would balance the meal nicely.

What are common mistakes to avoid?

A common mistake is overcrowding the pan while browning the chicken, which can lead to steaming instead of that nice, golden color. Also, make sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.

Easy Slow Cooker Puttanesca Chicken

Liza A

Slow cooker puttanesca chicken is a hearty dish with tender thighs simmered in rich, savory sauce. Enjoy the bold flavors and effortless prep for a cozy meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings -4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 lb 6 pieces skinless bone-in chicken thighs
1 onion chopped
1 clove garlic chopped
1 530 ml/550g jar puttanesca sauce
Chopped flat-leaf parsley
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Instructions

Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet; brown the chicken pieces for 3-5 minutes on each side.
Arrange the chicken in the bottom of slow cooker. Spread chopped onion and garlic over the browned chicken. Pour puttanesca sauce over the top. Set slow cooker on low and cook for 4 hours.
Serve over steamed rice. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Keyword chicken, easy dinner, puttanesca, slow cooker, weeknight meal

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