Chicken Napoli
Juicy chicken thighs simmered in flavorful marinara sauce with olives, served over pasta for a hearty Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat hot olive oil and cook chicken until golden brown.
- Remove thighs to a plate as soon as they brown.
- Drain fat from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add marinara sauce, sugar, and salt, stirring to remove brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return chicken to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Cover and cook chicken until fork-tender, about 20 minutes, turning meat once.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster. For a twist, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Spinach And Garlic Pasta for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Napoli over a bed of fusilli or spaghetti, allowing the pasta to absorb the delicious marinara sauce. A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the meal beautifully. This dish also pairs well with crusty bread for sopping up the sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken-Mushroom Lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Napoli contains roughly 948 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1801mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Fusilli holds the sauce well, but feel free to mix it up with your favorite pasta for a personalized touch.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the sauce and cook the pasta fresh. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What can I serve with Chicken Napoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Garlic Bread or incorporating a side of Chicken And Pasta for a filling family dinner. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).