Chicken Scampi Recipe

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi Recipe Recipe

Chicken Scampi is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the savory goodness of traditional scampi with juicy chicken. The garlic butter sauce, enhanced with a touch of lemon and herbs, creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, with minimal prep required. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

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

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

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite type)

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

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.

4. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Stir in the lemon juice, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving some of the pasta water.

7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the pasta, adding some reserved pasta water if necessary to help coat the pasta with the sauce.

8. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Shrimp Scampi: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a traditional scampi experience.

• Vegetarian Scampi: Replace the chicken with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a meat-free version.

• Spicy Chicken Scampi: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

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

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add more Parmesan cheese for a richer, thicker consistency.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work great, but penne or rotini will also hold up well in this dish.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it first to ensure even cooking.

Can I make Chicken Scampi without wine?

Yes, you can substitute the wine with chicken broth or a little bit of lemon juice and water for added flavor.

Is Chicken Scampi spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give it a bit of heat.

Can I use heavy cream substitutes?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

What can I serve with Chicken Scampi?

You can serve Chicken Scampi with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great pairing.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Make sure to cook the chicken breasts at a medium-high heat until they are just cooked through. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Can I prepare Chicken Scampi ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready. However, the sauce may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a bit of pasta water or chicken broth when reheating.

Can I freeze Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Just keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change once frozen and reheated.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi is a versatile and delicious dish that brings the classic flavors of scampi into a comforting, chicken-filled version. With its easy-to-make garlic butter sauce and quick cooking time, it’s a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself to a flavorful dinner. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy!