Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta | Easy Spicy Chicken Pasta in Rich Tomato Sauce

Chicken arrabbiata pasta
Chicken arrabbiata pasta
Jump to Recipe

This chicken arrabbiata pasta is a bold, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and just the right amount of chilli heat. It strikes the perfect balance of spicy, savoury, and satisfying — the kind of pasta that wakes up your taste buds without ever becoming overpowering. Quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for a cosy weekend dinner, it’s a brilliant way to turn simple ingredients into something full of flavour and personality.

It’s also incredibly quick to make, making it ideal for a mid‑week meal or after a long day. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this pasta tastes just as good cold the next day for an easy lunch

Any left over chicken?

If you’re using any left over chicken, this dinner could will be even quicker! Simply cut into bite size chunks and start from step 2.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta

  • Garlic Bread or Cheesy Garlic Baguette Perfect for scooping up the fiery, rich sauce
  • Simple Green Salad Crisp leaves with a lemon dressing to balance the heat
  • Rocket & Parmesan Salad Peppery freshness that complements the chilli kick
  • Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables Peppers, courgettes and aubergine that echo the Italian flavours
  • Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Sweet, blistered tomatoes that add brightness and acidity
  • Tenderstem Broccoli Clean, fresh greens that lighten the plate
  • Green Beans with Garlic & Chilli A savoury side that matches the pasta’s warmth
  • Sautéed Spinach with Garlic Soft, savoury greens that pair well with the tomato sauce
  • Crispy Potato Wedges A comfort‑forward option that works surprisingly well with spicy pasta
  • Warm Crusty Bread or Ciabatta Ideal for mopping up every drop of the arrabbiata sauce
  • Marinated Olives Briny, savoury bites that lift the bold flavours
  • Caprese Salad Tomato, mozzarella and basil for a cool, fresh contrast
  • Extra Parmesan & Fresh Basil A simple but perfect table addition

Variations: Chicken Arrabbiata Pasta

  • Extra‑Spicy Chicken Arrabbiata — increase chilli flakes or add fresh chillies for a hotter, more vibrant sauce.
  • Chicken, Pepper & Arrabbiata Pasta — add sliced peppers for sweetness that balances the heat.
  • Chicken, Spinach & Arrabbiata Pasta — wilt spinach into the sauce for colour and nutrients.
  • Chicken, Mushroom & Arrabbiata Pasta — stir in mushrooms for earthy depth and extra savoury flavour.
  • Chicken, Olive & Arrabbiata Pasta — add black or green olives for salty Mediterranean contrast.
  • Chicken, Courgette & Arrabbiata Pasta — include sliced courgette for a light, summery twist.
  • Chicken, Tomato‑Rich Arrabbiata Pasta — add extra chopped tomatoes for a brighter, juicier sauce.
  • Chicken, Basil & Arrabbiata Pasta — finish with fresh basil for fragrant Italian lift.
  • Chicken, Parmesan‑Rich Arrabbiata Pasta — increase Parmesan for a deeper, more indulgent cheesy finish.
  • Chicken, Mozzarella Arrabbiata Pasta — add mozzarella for a melty, stretchy topping.
  • Chicken, Broccoli & Arrabbiata Pasta — stir in small broccoli florets for colour and extra veg.
  • Chicken, Chorizo & Arrabbiata Pasta — add sliced chorizo for smoky depth and bold flavour.
  • Chicken, Pesto & Arrabbiata Pasta — swirl in basil pesto for a fragrant, creamy contrast to the heat.
  • Chicken, Creamy Arrabbiata Pasta — add a splash of cream for a richer, slightly mellowed sauce.
  • Chicken, Herb & Arrabbiata Pasta — finish with parsley or oregano for brightness and aroma
Chicken arrabbiata pasta

Chicken Arrabbiata pasta

Chicken arrabbiata pasta coated in a glossy, spicy tomato sauce, with tender chicken pieces and pasta mixed together, creating a bold, vibrant, chilli‑kissed Italian dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Roasting tin / deep baking tray
  • Large saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g pasta
  • 3 chicken breasts (you can use leftover chicken)

Arrabbiata sauce

  • 500 g passatta
  • 150 ml water
  • 1 tbsp tomato puree
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tsp Asafoetida
  • ½ tbsp basil
  • ½ tsp dried chilli flakes (if you like it really spicy, add a little more)
  • 1 tsp caster sugar
  • 1½ tbsp worcester sauce

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 180℃, place the chicken on a baking tray, cover with foil and cook for around 30-35mins, or until fully cooked. Once cooked, remove from the oven, cut into bite size chunks and set aside. See top tip
  • Cook the pasta as per the instructions on the packet. Once cooked, drain and set aside
  • To make the sauce, add all the ingredients into a large saucepan and gently simmer for around 10mins.
  • Add the chicken and pasta to the sauce, stir and ensuring everything is covered in the sauce and all warmed through.
  • Serve immediately with some garlic bread and grated cheese on top.

Top tip

  • You can always use any leftover chicken, cut into bite size chunks and start from step 2.