Dinner

Delicious Chicken Scampi

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Delicious Chicken Scampi is a delightful fusion of tender, golden chicken and a vibrant garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon and white wine. The aroma of sautéed garlic fills the kitchen as the sauce simmers, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta, each bite delivers a balance of rich buttery flavors and refreshing citrus notes. This dish is a fantastic choice for both quick weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. Whether served with a crisp white wine or a simple side salad, Chicken Scampi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley, this pasta dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
  • 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
  • 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 3/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic version)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
  3. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  5. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Add remaining butter and garlic to the skillet, sauté for 30 seconds.
  7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley. Let the sauce cook for another minute.
  8. Return chicken to skillet, tossing to coat with sauce.
  9. Serve over drained pasta, garnished with Parmesan.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 480 kcal | Servings: 4

What is Chicken Scampi?

Delicious Chicken Scampi is a dish that combines lightly floured and sautéed chicken tenders with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, enhanced by white wine, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. The result is a creamy, tangy, and savory sauce that coats both the chicken and pasta beautifully. The dish is often garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley for added depth of flavor.

Unlike heavier cream-based pasta dishes, Chicken Scampi has a light yet indulgent taste. The balance between the citrus notes of lemon and the richness of butter creates a dish that feels satisfying but not overly heavy. Additionally, the use of white wine (or chicken broth as an alternative) adds complexity and a slightly acidic touch that complements the buttery sauce.

The Origins of Chicken Scampi

The term “scampi” traditionally refers to a type of small crustacean, commonly known as langoustine or Norway lobster. In Italian cuisine, “scampi” dishes typically feature these shellfish sautéed in garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice. When Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, shrimp became the more common protein choice for scampi recipes. Over time, innovative home cooks and chefs began experimenting with different proteins, leading to the creation of Chicken Scampi.

The Americanized version of scampi evolved to include pasta, making it a more substantial and complete meal. Today, Chicken Scampi is a beloved dish that continues to gain popularity due to its incredible flavor and ease of preparation.

Why Chicken Scampi is a Must-Try Dish

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the biggest advantages of Chicken Scampi is how quickly it comes together. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s an ideal meal for busy individuals who want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The simple cooking process involves lightly breading the chicken, sautéing it until golden brown, and then building the sauce in the same pan, creating a rich, restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort.

2. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of ingredients in Chicken Scampi creates a well-balanced dish that is rich, savory, and slightly tangy. The garlic butter sauce, combined with lemon juice and white wine, adds multiple layers of flavor, while fresh herbs like parsley bring brightness and freshness to the dish. The final touch of Parmesan cheese gives it a slightly nutty and salty finish that makes every bite irresistible.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love Chicken Scampi is its versatility. While it is traditionally served with spaghetti or linguine, you can use any pasta of your choice. If you’re looking for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative, zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice make excellent substitutes. Additionally, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste use more garlic for a bolder flavor, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or substitute chicken broth for white wine to make it alcohol-free.

4. A Family-Friendly Dish

Chicken Scampi is a great option for family dinners because it appeals to both adults and children. The mild yet flavorful sauce makes it a dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. It can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken Scampi is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate it even further. Here are some great serving ideas:

  • Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers make excellent side dishes that complement the richness of the dish.
  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of Chicken Scampi.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the citrusy and buttery notes of the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a fresh lemonade or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon pairs beautifully.

Variations of Chicken Scampi

While the classic Chicken Scampi recipe is delicious as is, you can experiment with different variations to suit your preferences. Here are some popular adaptations:

  • Creamy Chicken Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier version.
  • Spicy Chicken Scampi: Incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to give the dish a little heat.
  • Vegetable-Packed Scampi: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Cheesy Scampi: Mix in grated mozzarella or provolone cheese for a cheesier, gooey texture.
  • Shrimp & Chicken Scampi: Combine shrimp and chicken for a surf-and-turf version that blends the best of both worlds.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Scampi

To ensure that your Chicken Scampi turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
  • Choose the Right Wine: A dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works best for creating a balanced sauce.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cooking the chicken just until golden brown keeps it tender and juicy. Overcooking can result in dry, tough chicken.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta absorbs the sauce better, creating a more flavorful dish.
  • Deglaze the Pan: Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan after cooking the chicken adds depth and richness to the sauce.

Conclusion:

Delicious Chicken Scampi is a dish that checks all the boxes it’s quick, flavorful, versatile, and family-friendly. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Its combination of garlic butter sauce, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan creates an irresistible blend of flavors that make it a standout meal.

With easy substitutions and variations, you can customize this dish to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences. Pair it with your favorite pasta, a glass of crisp white wine, and a side of garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience. Once you try Chicken Scampi, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

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