Craving a delicious weeknight dinner that’s easy to whip up but still feels special? If you love Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi – the restaurant’s famous dish with tender chicken, a luscious garlicky, buttery sauce, and a hint of lemon, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is a spot-on recreation you can make at home!
It’s a fun twist on the classic shrimp scampi but with juicy chicken instead. Trust me, it’s way easier to make than it sounds! Whether cooking for yourself or the whole family, this dish will surely become a new favorite.
What does Scampi mean?
While the original meaning of “scampi” refers to a specific type of crustacean, its meaning has expanded over time and across cultures. “Chicken Scampi” refers to the American style of cooking with a buttery, garlicky sauce, but with chicken as the main ingredient.
Knowing all this, doesn’t that Chicken Scampi sound even more delicious?
What makes a dish Scampi?
While the exact ingredients can vary depending on the recipe and regional variations, here’s what typically makes a dish “scampi”:
Essential Elements of Scampi:
- Butter: Lots of it! Butter forms the base of the sauce and gives scampi its signature rich and creamy texture.
- Garlic: Plenty of minced or sliced garlic is essential for the aromatic and pungent flavor that defines scampi.
- White Wine: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is often used to deglaze the pan and add acidity to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the butter and garlic.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley is typically used as a garnish and adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
Common Additional Ingredients:
- Olive Oil: Some recipes use olive oil in addition to butter to add complexity to the flavor.
- Shallots or Onions: These aromatics are sometimes added for extra flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick of heat.
- Chicken or Seafood Broth: A small amount of broth can be used to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sometimes grated parmesan cheese is added for a salty, cheesy finish.
Ultimately, scampi combines butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon juice, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying sauce typically finished with a swirl of cold butter at the end to create an extra silky texture. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, scampi is sure to please!
Why you will love this Chicken Scampi Pasta recipe…
Chicken Scampi Pasta
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts ,boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Scampi Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic ,minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley ,chopped
Pasta:
- 12 oz angel hair pasta
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
Ingredients
Cook Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions, aiming for al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for later.
Prepare Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken in flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Sauté Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Deglaze & Simmer:
- Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce is reduced by half.
Finish Sauce:
- Stir in the lemon juice, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the sauce is creamy. Add more pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
🧑🍳 Expert Tips
Storage Suggestions
Storing: Store any leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to keep the dish fresh and prevent odors from affecting the flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze Chicken Scampi for up to 2 months. Place the cooked chicken and garlic butter sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen Chicken Scampi in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Heat until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is hot.
Chicken Scampi Recipe FAQs
What is Scampi Sauce Made of?
Scampi sauce typically includes garlic, butter, white wine (or broth), lemon juice, and sometimes red pepper flakes.
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
How long does it take to make Chicken Scampi?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make Chicken Scampi without wine?
Yes, you can substitute the wine with an equal amount of chicken broth.
What Is the Best Wine to Use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal.
Can I make Chicken Scampi in a slow cooker?
Yes, but it may alter the texture of the chicken. It’s best to sear the chicken first for better flavor and texture. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, adding the lemon juice and Parmesan at the end.
What side dishes can I serve with Chicken Scampi?
Steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, rice, quinoa, or crusty bread are great options.
Can I make Chicken Scampi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store separately and combine when reheating.
Is chicken scampi the same as shrimp scampi?
Chicken scampi uses chicken instead of shrimp but maintains the same delicious flavors.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Scampi, and feel free to get creative with your variations!
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