Transform your dinner table with this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi! The creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken tenders, and colorful bell peppers create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful. Topped with Parmesan and served over angel hair pasta, it’s a restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly at home. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Serve it as a hearty weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Its combination of savory chicken, velvety sauce, and fresh vegetables is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious this recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz angel hair pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup red onion (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup white wine (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Coat the chicken tenders in the flour mixture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer for 4 minutes per side or until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds while stirring, then pour in wine and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and scrape up any browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and vegetables back into the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
- Serve the pasta topped with the cooked chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 533 kcal per serving
Servings: 6
Olive Garden Chicken Scampi: A Homestyle Classic
When it comes to recreating beloved restaurant dishes, few recipes capture the heart and flavor of Italian-American cuisine quite like Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi. This dish is a perfect balance of creamy richness, fresh vegetables, and savory chicken, making it a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to replicate a cozy night out at a restaurant or impress guests with a luxurious meal, this recipe offers the ultimate dining experience right in your kitchen.
The Origins of Chicken Scampi
The term “scampi” originates from Italian cuisine, referring to a type of small crustacean. However, in American dining, the term has evolved to describe dishes that feature a buttery, garlicky sauce, often served with shrimp or chicken. Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi takes this tradition and elevates it by combining the flavors of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and chicken in a creamy sauce served over angel hair pasta. This modern interpretation highlights both the simplicity and indulgence of classic Italian cooking.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes this Chicken Scampi special isn’t just its flavorful combination of ingredients—it’s also incredibly practical for home cooks. With a cook time of under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or spontaneous cravings. The recipe also allows for a great deal of customization. Whether you want to experiment with different types of pasta, substitute shrimp for chicken, or adjust the creaminess to your liking, this dish provides endless possibilities.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Scampi
While Chicken Scampi is undeniably indulgent, it also has several nutritional advantages. The dish incorporates a variety of colorful vegetables, including red, green, and yellow bell peppers, as well as red onions. These vegetables not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also provide a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, the use of lean chicken tenders offers a good source of protein without excessive fat content.
For those mindful of their dietary preferences, small adjustments can make this dish even more health-conscious. For instance, swapping out heavy cream for a lighter alternative or using gluten-free pasta can cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Pairing Chicken Scampi with Side Dishes
While this dish is a complete meal in itself, the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Consider pairing Chicken Scampi with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or dinner rolls make excellent additions, helping to soak up the creamy sauce. For a more indulgent spread, serve it alongside Olive Garden-inspired Zuppa Toscana or creamy fettuccine Alfredo. Don’t forget dessert a slice of tiramisu or a creamy panna cotta will provide the perfect sweet ending.
Tips for Cooking Success
Achieving restaurant-quality Chicken Scampi at home is easier than you might think. A few expert tips can ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. An al dente texture ensures it holds up well when tossed in the creamy sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and vibrant bell peppers make a noticeable difference in flavor and presentation.
- Deglaze with Wine: Adding white wine to the sauce not only deepens the flavor but also helps scrape up those caramelized bits from the skillet, adding depth to the sauce.
- Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream to achieve your desired sauce consistency. A splash of reserved pasta water can also help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few shavings of Parmesan on top adds a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness.
Variations and Customizations
The beauty of this Chicken Scampi recipe lies in its adaptability. While the traditional version is a crowd-pleaser, you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap Proteins: Replace chicken tenders with shrimp, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load up on extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the creamy chicken and vegetables over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in extra Parmesan or top the dish with mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Storage and Reheating
One of the perks of this dish is how well it holds up as leftovers. Store any remaining Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. This prevents the pasta from becoming dry and ensures the flavors remain as vibrant as when it was first made.
Conclusion:
Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is more than just a meal it’s an experience. From its origins rooted in Italian culinary tradition to its transformation into a beloved American favorite, this dish embodies comfort, indulgence, and versatility. Making it at home not only saves time and money but also allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Whether served as a simple family dinner or a centerpiece for entertaining guests, Chicken Scampi never fails to impress. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring the taste of Olive Garden into your kitchen tonight!
