Chicken Scampi Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi Recipe

Chicken Scampi offers the perfect blend of bold garlic, lemon, and buttery goodness. The juicy chicken breasts soak up the savory sauce, and when served over pasta, this dish becomes a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Start by cooking the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the scampi sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

4. Add cream and lemon: Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

5. Combine chicken and pasta: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and return them to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use shrimp: For a seafood variation, swap the chicken for shrimp to make shrimp scampi.

• Use zoodles: For a lower-carb option, substitute pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: While the dish can be frozen, it may not maintain its creamy texture after reheating. If you plan to freeze, consider storing the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta.

• Reheating: Reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They will have a bit more flavor and tend to be juicier.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

4. Is there a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute for a dairy-free version.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?

If you want a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

6. Can I use chicken broth instead of white wine?

Yes, chicken broth is a great substitute if you prefer not to use wine. It will still add depth of flavor to the dish.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

While fresh, cooked chicken is ideal for this recipe, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just make sure to add it toward the end of the cooking process to prevent it from drying out.

8. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan Parmesan cheese, or leave it out altogether for a lighter dish.

9. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes until it reduces. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free. Just ensure that the chicken is not coated in flour, and check the other ingredients for gluten.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi is a wonderfully indulgent and flavorful dish that brings the richness of garlic, butter, and cream together with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress, whether for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Enjoy this comforting and savory dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!