Chicken Scampi

This Chicken Scampi is a delightful dish that promises restaurant-quality flavors right in your kitchen! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy pasta recipe features tender chicken and vibrant vegetables all coated in a rich garlic sauce. Your family will love the comforting taste and colorful presentation of this meal, making it an instant favorite!

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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 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
• Plate It with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Salad
• 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 other types of pasta for Chicken Scampi?
• Is Chicken Scampi a healthy option?
• What can I serve with Chicken Scampi?
• How do I make Chicken Scampi gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Scampi can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of white wine, garlic, and cream creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta.
• Colorful Presentation: The addition of bell peppers not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by swapping chicken for shrimp or using zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Scampi, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized pot
• Shallow dish
• Cooking spoon
• Pasta strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and making the sauce all in one pan, enhancing flavor.
• Medium-sized pot: Perfectly sized for boiling pasta without overcrowding.
• Shallow dish: Makes dredging the chicken easy and ensures even coating with flour.

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, cover, and set aside.

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 slightly softened.
3. Stir in crushed garlic; 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, remaining salt, and chili flakes if using.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Scampi as an indulgent meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi

Serving Chicken Scampi is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the meal visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Plate It with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant color contrast and fresh flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick that brightens the dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious buttery sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls offer a chewy texture that complements the creamy pasta.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and balances the richness of Chicken Scampi.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the white wine in your Chicken Scampi.
• Pinot Grigio: This crisp wine pairs wonderfully with the buttery sauce and chicken.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi

Perfecting Chicken Scampi is easier than you might think. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, vegetables, and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; it will continue cooking when mixed with the hot sauce.
• Control Heat Carefully: Cook chicken over medium heat to achieve a golden brown crust without burning it.
• Deglaze Properly: Scraping the bottom of the skillet after adding wine ensures you capture all those delicious flavors.
• Adjust Creaminess: Add more or less cream based on your preference for richness; start with half and adjust as needed.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually, especially salt, to achieve a balanced flavor profile that suits your palate.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi

The right side dishes can complement your Chicken Scampi beautifully. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside this creamy pasta dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside the dish.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy texture and bright color to your plate.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts offer an earthy flavor that pairs well with buttery sauces.
4. Italian Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zoodles add a healthy twist while still tasting delightful in any sauce.
6. Risotto: Creamy risotto can be an indulgent alternative that matches well with the richness of Chicken Scampi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s overall quality. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta water means missing out on a key ingredient that helps thicken and flavor your sauce. Always save a cup before draining.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Monitor cooking time closely and remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden brown.
• Ignoring the garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor, but burning it can ruin your dish. Add garlic towards the end of cooking your vegetables for best results.
• Using low-quality wine: The wine significantly impacts the sauce’s flavor. Always choose a dry white wine that you would enjoy drinking to enhance your Chicken Scampi.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting as you cook is crucial. Don’t forget to adjust salt, pepper, and any additional spices to suit your palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the Chicken Scampi to cool before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Chicken Scampi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, separate the chicken from the pasta before freezing.

Reheating Chicken Scampi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is a creamy pasta dish made with sautéed chicken, garlic, white wine, and cream, often served over pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Scampi?

Yes! While angel hair is traditional, you can use fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.

Is Chicken Scampi a healthy option?

With moderate portions and customizable ingredients, Chicken Scampi can fit into a balanced diet. Consider using whole grain pasta for added health benefits.

What can I serve with Chicken Scampi?

Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Chicken Scampi gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure any sauces or seasonings are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Chicken Scampi recipe is not only quick and simple but also offers restaurant-quality flavors right at home. With its creamy texture and vibrant ingredients, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins like shrimp. Don’t miss out on trying this tasty dish!