Chicken Scampi

This Chicken Scampi recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for impressing your family or guests. Featuring juicy chicken and tender angel hair pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s an easy meal that brings gourmet flavors to your dinner table. With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, Chicken Scampi is suitable for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Get ready to savor every bite!

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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 Italian Touch
• Elegant Presentation
• Family-Friendly Style
• 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
• Can I substitute shrimp for chicken in Chicken Scampi?
• What type of wine is best for Chicken Scampi?
• How do I make Chicken Scampi healthier?
• Is Chicken Scampi kid-friendly?
• Can I make Chicken Scampi ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Scampi comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, white wine, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap chicken for shrimp or serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful bell peppers and fresh parsley not only enhance flavor but also make this dish visually appealing.
• Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Enjoy the taste of dining out without leaving your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Chicken Scampi efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Shallow dish
• Measuring cups
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for searing the chicken evenly and making the sauce.
• Pot: A good pot is necessary for cooking the pasta perfectly al dente.
• Shallow dish: Great for dredging the chicken in flour, ensuring 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 coated evenly.
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, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onion and bell peppers; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in crushed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in white wine while scraping up any browned bits from skillet; simmer for about 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream; let simmer before adding Parmesan cheese along with remaining salt and optional chili flakes.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Scampi—a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi

Serving Chicken Scampi can elevate your dining experience, making it feel both special and comforting. Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish.

Classic Italian Touch

• Lemon Wedges: Serve with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up the rich garlic sauce.

Elegant Presentation

• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for a gourmet touch.

Family-Friendly Style

• In Individual Bowls: Serve Chicken Scampi in individual bowls for a cozy, family-style meal.
• Kid-Friendly Plates: Pair with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to appeal to children’s tastes.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi

To ensure your Chicken Scampi turns out perfectly every time, keep these essential tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until golden brown but still juicy; this keeps the chicken tender.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water handy; it helps adjust sauce consistency while adding starch for creaminess.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and seasoning based on your preference during cooking for optimal flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Chicken Scampi is best enjoyed right away, as the pasta can absorb too much sauce if left sitting.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi

Pairing sides with Chicken Scampi can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to complement your dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs well with the buttery sauce, perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make a colorful and healthy addition.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and crunch to your meal.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a burst of flavor.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve alongside zucchini noodles dressed in olive oil and garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s quality. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your flour can lead to bland chicken. Be sure to mix in salt and pepper thoroughly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions precisely and taste test before draining.
• Using too much heat: Cooking chicken on high heat can result in burnt outsides and raw insides. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Neglecting the sauce timing: Adding cream too early can cause it to curdle. Wait until the wine has reduced before incorporating the cream.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency. Always save 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

• Freeze Chicken Scampi in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Scampi

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth while stirring until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute shrimp for chicken in Chicken Scampi?

Yes! Shrimp makes a delicious alternative and cooks quicker than chicken, ensuring a tasty variation.

What type of wine is best for Chicken Scampi?

Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay work best as they complement the flavors without overpowering them.

How do I make Chicken Scampi healthier?

Consider using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a low-carb option while still enjoying all the flavors.

Is Chicken Scampi kid-friendly?

Absolutely! With its creamy sauce and mild flavors, it’s often a hit with children who enjoy pasta dishes.

Can I make Chicken Scampi ahead of time?

You can prepare the components separately and store them; however, it’s best to combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Chicken Scampi recipe is not only quick and easy but also offers endless customization options. Whether you prefer swapping chicken for shrimp or experimenting with different vegetables, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try tonight!