Chicken Scampi

This Chicken Scampi recipe is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken come together beautifully, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

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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 a Side Salad
• Over Garlic Bread
• As Part of a Family Meal
• With Wine Pairing
• 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 can I customize my Chicken Scampi?
• What should I serve with Chicken Scampi?
• Is there an alcohol-free version of Chicken Scampi?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Chicken Scampi can be on your table in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: With the combination of garlic, white wine, and creamy sauce, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding your favorite vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: Its rich taste and appealing presentation make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious Chicken Scampi, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Medium-sized pot: Perfect for boiling pasta without overcrowding.
• Shallow dish: Great for dredging chicken in seasoned flour to ensure 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 the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a shallow dish, mix the flour with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken tenders in the seasoned flour until 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 and cover 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 and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in white wine while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet; simmer for about 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream; once simmering add Parmesan cheese along with remaining salt and optional chili flakes.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Toss cooked pasta into sauce until evenly coated.
2. Return chicken to skillet, nestling it into the pasta.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Scampi recipe! It’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll return to again and again!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi

Serving Chicken Scampi is all about presentation and pairing it with the right sides to enhance its flavors. This creamy dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the Chicken Scampi in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and pasta.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Pairing with a crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the scampi sauce beautifully.

Over Garlic Bread

• Serve Chicken Scampi alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful dipping experience. The garlic flavor ties in perfectly with the dish.

As Part of a Family Meal

• Present Chicken Scampi on a large platter for family-style dining. This encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

With Wine Pairing

• Enjoy this dish with a glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio. The wine’s acidity balances the creaminess of the sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi

Creating the perfect Chicken Scampi involves attention to detail and some simple techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and vegetables make all the difference in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook until just golden brown; it will remain juicy when tossed with the sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps to thicken your sauce and bind everything together.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. You may need an extra pinch of salt or pepper.
• Experiment with proteins: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or even scallops for different variations.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the flavors are at their peak right after cooking.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Scampi can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious buttery sauce; simply spread butter mixed with garlic on toasted bread.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese provides a crunchy contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and nutrition.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that balances out the rich flavors of the scampi.
5. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice flavored with lemon zest complements the chicken nicely while adding another layer of flavor.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness to your meal.
7. Pesto Pasta: A small serving of pesto pasta makes for an aromatic side that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zoodles as a base instead of traditional pasta, allowing the scampi flavors to shine through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great.

• Using the wrong pasta – Always opt for angel hair pasta or a similar variety. It complements the sauce better than thicker pastas.
• Overcooking the chicken – Sear the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Not reserving pasta water – This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together. Always set aside some before draining.
• Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh parsley adds brightness. Don’t overlook garnishing your dish; it enhances flavor and presentation.
• Ignoring wine quality – Use a good-quality dry white wine. It significantly affects the flavor of your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Scampi in an airtight container.
• It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Scampi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• To prevent moisture loss, ensure it’s well-sealed.

Reheating Chicken Scampi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the dish as it warms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is a creamy pasta dish featuring pan-seared chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce with white wine and cream.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes! Swapping chicken for shrimp offers a delicious variation while maintaining the same flavorful sauce.

How can I customize my Chicken Scampi?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili flakes if desired.

What should I serve with Chicken Scampi?

Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances richness with freshness.

Is there an alcohol-free version of Chicken Scampi?

Absolutely! Substitute white wine with chicken stock mixed with grape juice or apple juice for similar depth without alcohol.

Final Thoughts

This colorful Chicken Scampi is not only easy to prepare but also offers incredible versatility. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its restaurant-quality flavors at home!

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