Chicken Scampi

This colorful and creamy Chicken Scampi is a quick and easy meal that tastes restaurant-quality! Juicy, pan-seared chicken is paired with tender angel hair pasta and tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce made with white wine and cream. With vibrant bell peppers and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a rich sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily switch out the chicken for shrimp or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful bell peppers and fresh parsley make this dish visually stunning for any dinner table.
• Family Friendly: With its creamy texture and familiar flavors, this dish appeals to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Scampi, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized pot
• Shallow dish
• Tongs or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of chicken and vegetables, ensuring perfect searing.
• Medium-sized pot: Ideal for boiling pasta without overcrowding; helps achieve the right texture.
• Shallow dish: Makes dredging the chicken in flour easier and ensures an 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)

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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, coating them 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 the skillet, cover, and set aside.

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; cook for 1 more 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 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 pasta.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

This Chicken Scampi recipe is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table! Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi

Serving Chicken Scampi is all about enhancing its creamy, garlicky flavors while providing a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the richness of the scampi.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: A twist on the classic, topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence.

Serve with Wine

• Chardonnay: This white wine pairs beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce of your Chicken Scampi.
• Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp option that balances well with the dish’s rich flavors.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side to add a zesty kick right before eating.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi

To ensure your Chicken Scampi turns out restaurant-quality every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs for vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Thickness of chicken pieces may vary. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps thicken and bind the sauce to the pasta seamlessly.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually; it’s easier to add than to fix oversalted dishes.
• Finish with Cheese Off Heat: Stir in Parmesan after removing from heat to maintain its creaminess without clumping.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi

Pairing sides with your Chicken Scampi can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options that will complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances the richness of scampi.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of green and a slight crunch, making it a healthy choice.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings sweetness and texture to your plate.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles add freshness while keeping things light alongside rich scampi.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can absorb any extra sauce from the Chicken Scampi.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, cutting through the creaminess nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi, there are a few common pitfalls you should watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Skipping on seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Make sure to follow the package instructions and taste it a minute before it’s done.
• Using low-quality wine: Cheap wine can negatively impact the sauce’s flavor. Opt for a quality dry white wine for the best results.
• Skipping the pasta water: This starchy water helps thicken your sauce and bind it to the pasta. Always reserve some before draining!
• Neglecting to garnish: A lack of garnish can make your dish look unappealing. Don’t forget to use fresh parsley or Parmesan on top for that finishing touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Scampi in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Scampi

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

Reheating Chicken Scampi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or broth and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Scampi gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken and substitute gluten-free pasta for the angel hair.

Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp is a popular alternative that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce of Chicken Scampi.

What sides pair well with Chicken Scampi?

Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of your Chicken Scampi.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Chicken Scampi?

Consider adding capers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano also work well!

Is Chicken Scampi suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This colorful and creamy Chicken Scampi is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile enough to please any palate. You can customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!