Chicken Fra Diavolo Recipe
Spicy Roasted Chicken Thighs with Tomato and Basil
This vibrant, full-flavored dish combines tender chicken thighs with a zesty tomato sauce, fragrant herbs, and a touch of heat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe yields 6 generous servings.
Ingredients
This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.
- 6 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 hot red pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
- 1/2 cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese, or to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry and trim excess skin and fat. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add chicken thighs in a single layer, leaving space between each. Brown for 3-5 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed. Remove browned chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- Using the same skillet, add chopped onion and hot red pepper. Saut until onions soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and stir, then add tomato paste. Cook for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and minced basil. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Nestle the browned chicken thighs into the sauce, skin side up, along with any accumulated juices.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (74C).
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley, garnish with extra basil leaves, and top with Parmesan cheese to taste. Serve warm.
Cook's Tips
- Use food-safe gloves when handling hot peppers to avoid irritation, and avoid touching your eyes.
- For a milder flavor, remove seeds and membranes from the peppers. Add extra for more heat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 413
- Total Fat: 26g (33% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 8g (41% DV)
- Cholesterol: 200mg (67% DV)
- Sodium: 376mg (16% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 7g (3% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Total Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 38g (75% DV)
- Vitamin C: 44mg (49% DV)
- Calcium: 80mg (6% DV)
- Iron: 3mg (14% DV)
- Potassium: 637mg (14% DV)
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
History and Origins
Chicken Fra Diavolo draws its roots from the fiery culinary traditions of Southern Italy, where bold flavors and spicy notes are a hallmark of regional cooking. The term Fra Diavolo, meaning Brother Devil, is believed to have emerged in the 19th century as a nickname for dishes that combined tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and generous heat from chili peppers. While the original Fra Diavolo sauce was traditionally paired with seafood, Italian immigrants in the United States adapted the concept, experimenting with local ingredients and eventually applying the sauce to chicken, giving rise to the modern variation.
Regional Variations
In coastal regions of Italy, Fra Diavolo sauce often highlights fresh seafood and relies on local peperoncino for heat. In contrast, American-Italian versions tend to be richer, incorporating fire-roasted tomatoes, dried seasonings, and heartier proteins like chicken or even pork. Some Northeastern U.S. restaurants add wine or butter to create a silkier sauce, while home cooks may increase or decrease the spice level depending on personal preference. The recipes adaptability has helped it evolve into a household favorite across diverse regions.
Differences From Similar Dishes
While Chicken Fra Diavolo shares similarities with dishes like Chicken Cacciatore or Pollo alla Diavola, it distinguishes itself through its pronounced heat and the signature combination of tomatoes with red pepper flakes. Unlike Cacciatore, which emphasizes rustic vegetables and slow simmering, Fra Diavolo prioritizes a sharp, spicy tomato base. Compared to Pollo alla Diavola, which relies on char and spice from grilling, Fra Diavolo offers a saucier and more aromatic experience, enriched with wine and herbs.
Where It Is Commonly Served
Today, Chicken Fra Diavolo appears frequently on the menus of Italian-American restaurants, especially in New York, New Jersey, and Boston, where the cuisine of early Italian immigrants remains influential. It is often served in cozy trattorias, family-style eateries, or prepared at home as a comforting yet exciting dinner option. Many enjoy it alongside pasta, crusty bread, or simple salads, making it a versatile dish for both casual meals and special gatherings.
Interesting Facts
One intriguing detail about Fra Diavolo dishes is that their name may have been inspired by a real historical figure: Michele Pezza, an Italian guerrilla fighter nicknamed Il Fra Diavolo. Though indirectly related, the association with fiery rebellion added character to the dishs identity. Another fun fact is the American influence on the recipeearly Italian immigrants tended to embrace spicier ingredients available in the U.S., such as crushed red pepper flakes, which helped shape the dish we know today. Despite its boldness, Chicken Fra Diavolo remains highly customizable, allowing cooks to control heat levels, add vegetables, or experiment with different herbs.
FAQ about Chicken Fra Diavolo Recipe
Comments
Brian
10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM
This is a great recipe. The only thing I changed was the amount of garlic. I always add more garlic to anything I make. I added it to my recipe rotation with the rating of 5 stars. I will definitely make again.
SappySoda5130
02/21/2024 04:01:31 PM
Made this one lots very good one pan meal in cast iron.
nicolekrystyn
11/13/2024 06:21:30 PM
This was a really tasty new recipe for me to try. I'm a bit of a wimp when it comes to spice so I left out the red hot pepper but I did include the crushed red pepper flakes. And instead of fresh basil I used crushed tomatoes that had basil included. I served with rotini pasta and a salad on the side. My husband said it was great and the chicken was moist and flavorful. I'll definitely make again!
Lisa Harris
02/03/2025 03:48:19 AM
I love how minimal the ingredients are.
Uncannymanny28
01/05/2025 06:37:36 AM
if you know my wife sandre she is a picky eater because of allergies and sensitiviy to certain things so she didnt likd this but i did!!!! more for me i say!!;) this is a very tasty recioe. 5 stars where to begin, the flavor is tastt abd spicy (spice alert to people who need a warning!! The Sauce id the best part thats for sure. YOU MUST add chinky tomatoe to the saice beciase it makes
Donna Flores
10/29/2024 09:38:36 PM
This is going straight into my favorites folder.
David Brown
06/17/2024 02:12:03 AM
I’m officially hooked on this recipe.
CalmDonut3116
04/11/2024 11:44:21 PM
Very flavorful dish I added sliced cherry tomatoes on top and some Kalamata olives and avocado. My husband devoured it
Brandon Anderson
03/04/2024 07:45:46 PM
My taste buds are living their best life.
Charles Clark
02/16/2024 11:37:09 AM
This turned out better than takeout.
Joanne Peters
01/10/2024 04:07:29 PM
This was so flavorful!! I made it in my instant pot and came out perfect! Definitely, I will make this again.
Shannon Williams
01/08/2024 04:34:18 PM
I made it in my dutch oven and turned out beautiful, just as in the picture. My only reason for rating it 4 stars is because I'm not a fan of tarragon. If you like Tarragon, it would definitely be 5 stars. very easy and fairly quick to make. I would make it again but maybe finding a substitution...just a personal preference.