The Best Poultry Dishes from Italy’s Coastal Towns

Italy is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with coastal towns offering a unique blend of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. While seafood often takes the spotlight in these regions, poultry dishes bring their own distinct appeal. Here are some of the best poultry dishes you can savor from Italy’s picturesque coastal towns.

1. Pollo alla Cacciatora (Hunter’s Chicken)
Originating from regions like Tuscany, Pollo alla Cacciatora is a rustic dish that features chicken simmered in a savory blend of tomatoes, olives, and herbs. This dish captures the essence of Italian cooking—simple yet rich in flavor. Often served with crusty bread, it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

2. Coniglio alla Ligure (Liguria-Style Rabbit)
Although rabbit is less common in many cuisines, it holds a special place in Liguria’s culinary tradition. Coniglio alla Ligure typically features rabbits marinated in white wine, garlic, and herbs before being slow-cooked with olives and capers. This dish embodies the coastal flavors of the region and is often paired with polenta or roasted potatoes.

3. Chicken Scarpariello
This flavorful dish hails from the southern coastal regions of Italy, particularly from the Amalfi Coast. Chicken Scarpariello combines chicken thighs with sausages, bell peppers, and a tangy vinegar-based sauce. It’s a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that reflects the vibrancy of Italian coastal life.

4. Pollo al Limone (Lemon Chicken)
Famous in coastal areas like Amalfi, Pollo al Limone features chicken marinated in fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic. The bright citrus flavor infuses the meat, creating a succulent dish typically served with roasted vegetables or fresh salads, making it a refreshing choice for hot summer days.

5. Faraona al Forno (Roast Guinea Fowl)
In some coastal Italian towns, roast guinea fowl is a cherished dish, especially during festive occasions. Faraona al Fornois prepared by marinating the bird with herbs and citrus before roasting it to perfection. Often accompanied by seasonal vegetables, this dish is both aromatic and visually stunning, making it a highlight at family gatherings.

6. Chicken Piccata
While popular across Italy, Chicken Piccata enjoys a special place in the hearts of those living along the coastal areas. The dish features thinly sliced chicken breasts cooked in a lemon-butter sauce with capers. Served over pasta or with a side of sautéed greens, it is simple yet indulgent, offering flavors reminiscent of the sea.

7. Tagliatelle al Ragu di Pollo (Chicken Ragu with Tagliatelle)
This hearty pasta dish comes from Bologna but has variations along the coast. Tagliatelle al Ragu di Pollo features fresh tagliatelle pasta topped with a rich sauce made from slow-cooked chicken, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The result is a comforting dish that perfectly marries the traditions of Northern and Southern Italy.

Italy's coastal towns are not only celebrated for their seafood but also for a variety of delectable poultry dishes that offer a taste of tradition and flavor. Whether you're enjoying a rustic meal in a quaint seaside trattoria or trying your hand at recreating these dishes at home, the richness of Italy’s culinary heritage is sure to impress.