Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken – in a rich, delicious, blush tomato sauce!

Transform your dinner table with this delicious Amatriciana pasta with chicken, a contemporary adaptation of the beloved Roman dish. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Amatriciana sauce with tender chicken, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that your family will love. Learn how to make this perfect fusion of classic Italian cuisine and modern cooking techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken

This chicken-enhanced version of the classic Amatriciana sauce gets a delightful makeover. While purists might stick to the traditional preparation, this variation offers a protein-rich alternative that maintains the sauce’s signature flavors while making it a more substantial main course. The combination of crispy guanciale (or pancetta), sweet tomatoes, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a harmonious blend that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The History Behind Amatriciana Pasta

Before diving into our chicken Amatriciana recipe, it’s worth noting that the original Amatriciana sauce hails from Amatrice in central Italy. The traditional version uses guanciale, pecorino cheese, tomatoes, and sometimes onions. Our chicken adaptation honors these roots while offering a modern interpretation that’s both filling and flavorful.

Ingredients for Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken

For the Sauce:

• 6 ounces guanciale or pancetta, diced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Components:

• 1 pound bucatini or spaghetti
• 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Extra Pecorino Romano for serving

How to Make Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
3. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes)
4. Remove chicken and set aside

Making the Amatriciana Sauce:

1. In the same pan, add diced guanciale or pancetta
2. Cook until crispy and fat has rendered (about 5-7 minutes)
3. Add onions and cook until softened (about 5 minutes)
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes
6. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes until thickened

Bringing It All Together:

1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining
3. Return chicken to the sauce and warm through
4. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine
5. Add Pecorino Romano and basil, stirring well
6. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed

Tips for the Perfect Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of your Amatriciana pasta with chicken depends significantly on your ingredients. Opt for genuine Pecorino Romano cheese and high-quality guanciale or pancetta. If using pancetta, choose an unsmoked variety to maintain the authentic flavor profile of Amatriciana sauce.

Cooking Techniques

• Don’t overcook the pasta; keep it al dente
• Allow the guanciale to render its fat properly for maximum flavor
• Don’t rush the sauce reduction process
• Season the chicken well to ensure it complements the sauce

Storage and Reheating

Your Amatriciana pasta with chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency. The flavors often develop further after a day, making this dish excellent for meal prep.

Variations of Amatriciana Pasta with Chicken

Spicy Version

Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh chilies for a kicked-up Amatriciana pasta with chicken that packs more heat.

Vegetable Addition

Include roasted bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture in your chicken Amatriciana.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

This robust Amatriciana pasta with chicken pairs beautifully with medium-bodied Italian red wines. Consider serving it with:

• Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
• Chianti Classico
• Sangiovese

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg

This hearty Amatriciana pasta with chicken serves 6 people and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this modern interpretation of the classic Amatriciana sauce with adding chicken creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Remember, while this recipe takes some liberty with the traditional Amatriciana preparation by adding chicken, it maintains the essential flavors and techniques that make this Roman pasta dish so beloved. The result is a delicious fusion that respects its origins while offering a protein-rich alternative perfect for contemporary dining.