Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make chicken dish that brings authentic Italian cuisine straight to your dining table? Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken is the perfect recipe for you! Packed with Mediterranean flavors like juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and savory pancetta, this traditional dish perfectly balances simple ingredients with a rustic flair. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just craving a comforting meal on a weeknight, this recipe is bound to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step to cook Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken at home, share helpful pro tips, and give you the confidence to recreate this gem like a true Italian chef. Roll up your sleeves, and let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Roman-Style Chicken

Before we dig into the recipe, here’s why Roman-Style Chicken deserves a prime spot in your meal rotation:

Bursting with Flavor: From the smoky pancetta to the vibrant peppers and tender chicken, each bite is layered with flavor.
Simple Yet Elegant: This dish looks and tastes restaurant-quality but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Roman-Style Chicken reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for leftovers.
Healthy Mediterranean Ingredients: It’s packed with hearty veggies, olive oil, and lean protein—a balanced meal for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here's what you'll need for this classic dish. Most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store:

For the Chicken:

4 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
4 chicken drumsticks
1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for seasoning)

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 ounces pancetta, diced
1 medium onion, sliced thin
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced into strips
1 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
2 tablespoons capers, drained
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional (for serving):

Crusty Italian bread or pasta on the side to soak up the flavorful sauce.

How to Make Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels—this helps achieve a crispy golden skin. Generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken skin-side down and sear until it’s golden brown, about 4–5 minutes on each side. You don’t need to cook the chicken through at this stage. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Pancetta

Drop the diced pancetta into the same skillet and cook until it’s crispy, about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the sliced onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. The vegetables will absorb the pancetta's savory flavor.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to reduce by half, which takes about 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Return the pancetta to the pan and add the capers. Mix well to combine.

Step 7: Simmer the Chicken

Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, skin-side up. Make sure the chicken is partially submerged in the sauce but leave the skin exposed so it stays crispy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enhanced flavor. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or over pasta to soak up the rich tomato-based sauce.

Chef John's Pro Tips for the Perfect Roman-Style Chicken

Choose the Right Chicken Cuts

Bone-in, skin-on pieces are essential for juicy meat and crispy skin that doesn’t dry out during cooking.

Swap Out Pancetta if Necessary

Can’t find pancetta? Prosciutto or even thick-cut bacon work well as alternatives to bring that smoky flavor.

Don’t Skip the Wine

The wine adds depth to the dish. If you don’t cook with alcohol, you can substitute with additional chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar.

Customize the Heat

Prefer a spicy kick? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a fresh chili to the mix.

Double the Sauce

Love extra sauce for dipping? Double the liquid ingredients (tomatoes and chicken broth) and simmer a little longer to reduce the sauce to the desired thickness.

Pairing Suggestions

Roman-Style Chicken pairs beautifully with the following:

Wines: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red like Chianti complements the bold flavors.
Sides: Try creamy polenta or roasted potatoes for a hearty accompaniment.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on sophistication. It offers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients and an approachable cooking technique. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish brings joy to your plate every single time.

Time to Get Cooking!

Now it’s your turn to create this Italian masterpiece at home. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the warm, rich flavors of Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken. Planning to make it tonight? Be sure to share photos of your creation and tag us (@ChefJohnRecipes). We’d love to see how it turns out!