Papa’s Favorite Pasta Sauce ๐
Description:
In our household, Sundays were synonymous with pasta, but Papa had a unique twist on the traditional Italian “gravy” typically made with beef or pork. He crafted this recipe, reveling in the lightness of chicken as the star ingredient. While my friends indulged in spaghetti and meatballs, we enjoyed tender chicken and peppers melded into a delightful pasta sauce. It’s like having two delectable meals in one! With juicy chicken and flavorful sauce, this recipe promises a satisfying feast.
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 12
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
2 | Frying chickens |
4 | Onions |
2 | Tomato puree |
1 | Canola oil |
1 | Dried basil |
2 | Dried oregano |
2 | Italian parsley |
2 | Fresh garlic |
6 | Salt |
2 | Red pepper flakes |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 225.5
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4g
- Cholesterol: 56.9mg
- Sodium: 461.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 12.2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6.3g
- Protein: 16.1g
Keywords:
One Dish Meal, Chicken, Poultry, Meat, European, Weeknight, < 4 Hours

Instructions:
-
Prepare Chicken:
- Wash the chicken pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and set aside.
-
Sautรฉ Aromatics:
- In a large saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
- Sautรฉ the onions and fresh garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
-
Brown Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the saucepan, placing them skin-side down.
- Lightly brown the chicken on both sides for added flavor.
-
Add Flavorful Ingredients:
- Stir in the sweet peppers, tomato puree, dried basil, dried oregano, Italian parsley, salt, and red pepper flakes.
-
Simmer to Perfection:
- Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer over low to medium heat for 1 and a half hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Adjust Consistency:
- Note that while tomato puree often requires additional water, this recipe relies on the moisture from the cooking peppers and chicken to dilute the puree. However, if the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, gradually add half a can of water or wine until it reaches your desired consistency.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the sauce is cooked to perfection, serve it generously over your favorite pasta, and savor the unique blend of flavors that Papa’s favorite pasta sauce brings to the table.
-
Store for Later:
- If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the sauce even more delicious upon reheating.
Papa’s favorite pasta sauce is a delightful departure from traditional Italian gravies, offering a lighter, chicken-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether enjoyed on a cozy Sunday afternoon or as a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too!