Chicken Scampi

This Chicken Scampi is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italian cuisine right to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy and colorful recipe combines juicy chicken with tender pasta in a rich garlic sauce. With its quick preparation and restaurant-quality taste, Chicken Scampi is sure to impress family and friends alike!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Pasta & Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Scampi
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine & Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Scampi
• Classic Presentation
• With Garlic Bread
• Over a Bed of Greens
• Accompanied by Salad
• With Grated Cheese
• Paired with Lemon Wedges
• How to Perfect Chicken Scampi
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Scampi
• Reheating Chicken Scampi
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Scampi?
• Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
• How do I make Chicken Scampi healthier?
• What type of white wine is best for Chicken Scampi?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Scampi recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich Flavors: The buttery garlic sauce with white wine and cream adds a gourmet touch that elevates this dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Chicken Scampi with seasonal vegetables or alternative proteins like shrimp for variety.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and rich taste, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one skillet, this recipe minimizes mess while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Scampi, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Below are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized pot
• Shallow dish
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing the chicken and cooking the sauce evenly.
• Medium-Sized Pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta without overcrowding.
• Shallow Dish: Ideal for dredging the chicken in seasoned flour to ensure an even coating.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds (650g) chicken tenderloins (mini chicken fillets in the UK)
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 8 ounces (225g) angel hair pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 red onion, sliced into half-moons
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
• ½ cup (120ml) whipping cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken tenders in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet, cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onion and bell peppers; cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in crushed garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in white wine; scrape up any browned bits from bottom of skillet. Simmer for about 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream; bring to simmer. Add Parmesan cheese along with remaining salt and chili flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Toss cooked pasta into sauce until well coated.
2. Return seared chicken to skillet; nestle into pasta mixture.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Scampi!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi

Serving Chicken Scampi is a delightful experience, as this dish combines rich flavors with hearty textures. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance your meal and impress your guests.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the Chicken Scampi directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
• Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of color and freshness.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the dish with warm, toasted garlic bread.
• The crispy texture complements the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite enjoyable.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Place the Chicken Scampi on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach.
• This adds a refreshing crunch while balancing the richness of the scampi.

Accompanied by Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette enhances the meal.
• The acidity from the dressing cuts through the creaminess of the dish.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
• Guests can sprinkle more cheese over their servings for an extra cheesy delight.

Paired with Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the chicken and pasta.
• The acidity brightens up flavors and adds zest to each bite.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi

Perfecting your Chicken Scampi is easier than you think. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken tenderloins and high-quality dry white wine for depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear until golden brown but still juicy; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, making it silky and cohesive.
• Simmer the Wine: Allow the wine to reduce properly; this intensifies its flavor and removes any harshness.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for added flavor and freshness.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try shrimp or scallops as alternatives for a different twist on this classic recipe.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi

Pairing sides with Chicken Scampi enhances your overall dining experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this creamy dish beautifully.

1. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crisp texture and vibrant color to your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides earthy flavors that balance out the richness.
3. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad brings in crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory croutons.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting side that soaks up any remaining sauce.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing counterpoint.
6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, serve Chicken Scampi over zucchini noodles as a healthy alternative.
7. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes for a subtle yet delicious accompaniment.
8. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob can add sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors in your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Scampi, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the flour can lead to bland chicken. Always mix in salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the angel hair pasta too long results in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely and taste before draining.
• Ignoring the wine reduction: Failing to allow the wine to reduce can create a watery sauce. Let it simmer until slightly thickened for richer flavor.
• Using cold chicken: Cooking chicken straight from the fridge can cause uneven cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Scampi in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Scampi

• Place Chicken Scampi in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Scampi

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Chicken Scampi in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion of Chicken Scampi into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth along with Chicken Scampi. Stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is a delicious dish featuring chicken breast cooked in a creamy garlic butter sauce, typically served over pasta.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes! For a delightful variation, you can easily swap out chicken for shrimp in your Chicken Scampi recipe.

How do I make Chicken Scampi healthier?

For a lighter version of Chicken Scampi, consider using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.

What type of white wine is best for Chicken Scampi?

Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay work best as they enhance the sauce’s flavor without overpowering it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This colorful and creamy Chicken Scampi is not only quick and easy but also packs restaurant-quality flavors right at home. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for any dinner rotation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or protein options—your taste buds will thank you!

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