The Best Chicken Recipes from Italy’s Coastal Regions

Italy’s coastal regions are renowned for their stunning vistas, fresh seafood, and vibrant cuisine, but chicken also plays a significant role in many traditional dishes. These recipes showcase the unique flavors and cooking styles of each coastal area, blending the best of land and sea. Here are some of the best chicken recipes inspired by Italy’s coastal regions.

1. Chicken Piccata

Originating from the coastal regions of Campania and Liguria, Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed and served in a savory lemon and caper sauce.

Ingredients: chicken breasts, flour, lemon juice, capers, garlic, chicken broth, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Instructions: Sauté the chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown. Remove from the pan, then add garlic, capers, and chicken broth. Let it simmer and add lemon juice before returning the chicken to the pan. Garnish with parsley before serving.

2. Pollo al Limone

Pollo al Limone, or lemon chicken, is a classic dish from the Amalfi Coast known for its zesty flavors and bright presentation. The use of fresh lemons elevates this straightforward recipe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients: whole chicken, fresh lemons, garlic, rosemary, olive oil, white wine, salt, and pepper.

Instructions: Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary. Roast it in the oven with white wine and olive oil until it’s golden and juicy.

3. Chicken Sorrentina

From the charming town of Sorrento, this dish combines chicken with the classic flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, and cheese to create a satisfying meal.

Ingredients: chicken thighs, eggplant, mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Instructions: Fry eggplant until tender and set aside. Sauté chicken thighs until browned, then layer with tomatoes, eggplant, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Chicken alla Cacciatora

Known as “hunter’s chicken,” this rustic dish originates from Tuscany. Chicken alla Cacciatora is a slow-cooked meal that combines chicken with tomatoes, wine, and herbs, resulting in a rich and hearty sauce.

Ingredients: chicken pieces, tomatoes, red wine, onions, bell peppers, olives, bay leaves, and herbs (thyme, oregano).

Instructions: Brown the chicken, then sauté the vegetables until soft. Add tomatoes, wine, herbs, and the chicken back into the pot. Simmer for at least an hour until the chicken is tender and the flavors are fully developed.

5. Chicken and Shrimp Scampi

Combining two popular proteins, Chicken and Shrimp Scampi is a dish reminiscent of Italy’s seaside towns. Infused with garlic, white wine, and parsley, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients: chicken breasts, shrimp, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, parsley, and spaghetti.

Instructions: Cook spaghetti, and in another pan, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add chicken and shrimp. Deglaze with white wine and lemon juice. Toss with spaghetti and garnish with parsley.

6. Chicken with Olives and Lemon

This recipe hails from the coastal region of Liguria, where olives are a staple. The combination of salty olives and zesty lemon complements the chicken beautifully.

Ingredients: chicken thighs, green olives, lemons, garlic, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Instructions: Brown chicken in olive oil, then add garlic, olives, and lemon slices. Bake until cooked through, and finish with fresh thyme.

These best chicken recipes from Italy’s coastal regions highlight the diverse culinary traditions and fresh ingredients that make Italian cuisine so beloved. Whether you prefer citrusy flavors, hearty sauces, or the delightful combination of chicken and seafood, each dish brings a taste of the coast to your table. Try these recipes for an authentic Italian experience right at home!