Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy, tender meat. They hold flavor better than chicken breasts.
Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Sear to Perfection: Heat a skillet and sear the marinated chicken until golden brown. This adds deep flavor and texture.
Build a Spicy Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add diced tomatoes and a touch of white wine.
Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop bold, spicy flavors. Add oregano and fresh basil for depth.
Slice and Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Let it simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes to absorb the heat.
Balance the Spice: If the sauce is too spicy, add a spoon of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow it out without losing flavor.
Finish with Freshness: Top with fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.