This Chicken Scampi is a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen! Tender bites of chicken are pan-seared to golden perfection, then coated in a buttery, garlicky white wine sauce with a touch of lemon for brightness. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with fresh parsley and parmesan, this dish is simple yet packed with complex flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Pair it with a crisp white wine and a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this Chicken Scampi is sure to be a hit at the table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced into 1-Tbsp pieces
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (6 cloves)
- 12 oz. thin spaghetti (or standard)
- 1 cup dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
- 1/8 – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese (or Romano cheese)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions, until al dente.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Toss them with flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large non-stick skillet, melt 3 Tbsp butter with 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and let it sear until golden brown on one side, about 4 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until done.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt 1 Tbsp butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds, making sure not to brown it.
- Pour in the white wine and red pepper flakes, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce by three-quarters, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining 4 Tbsp butter until melted. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toss the drained pasta with the chicken and sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and garnish with parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 630 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of Scampi Dishes
The term “Scampi” traditionally refers to a type of small crustacean, specifically langoustines, which are commonly prepared with butter, garlic, and white wine. The dish originated in Italy, where these shellfish were sautéed in olive oil and served as a flavorful seafood entrée. However, when Italian immigrants brought the recipe to America, they adapted it to local ingredients, leading to the creation of Shrimp Scampi.
Over time, the term “Scampi” became associated more with the cooking style rather than the seafood itself. This paved the way for variations like Chicken Scampi, which uses the same luscious garlic butter sauce but replaces shrimp with chicken for a heartier and more accessible option. Today, Chicken Scampi is a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine, offering a comforting yet sophisticated meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi
1. A Quick and Easy Gourmet Meal
One of the best things about Chicken Scampi is that it looks and tastes gourmet but is incredibly easy to make. The entire dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The simple steps searing the chicken, making the sauce, and tossing everything together with pasta make this an approachable dish for cooks of all skill levels.
2. Rich, Buttery Flavor with a Zesty Twist
The key to Chicken Scampi’s irresistible flavor is the combination of rich butter, fragrant garlic, dry white wine, and fresh lemon juice. The butter adds depth and indulgence, while the lemon and white wine create a bright contrast that prevents the dish from feeling too heavy. The result is a well-balanced sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.
3. Versatile and Customizable
Chicken Scampi is easy to customize based on personal preference and dietary needs. While thin spaghetti is the most common choice, you can swap it for linguine, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free pasta alternative. The chicken can be replaced with shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version. Additionally, adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance both the nutrition and visual appeal of the dish.
4. Perfect for Pairing
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the sauce, while roasted vegetables or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments. If you enjoy wine, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the citrusy and buttery notes of the scampi sauce.
Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi
While the recipe itself is simple, there are a few key techniques that can elevate your Chicken Scampi from good to restaurant-quality:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor and aroma. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic, as it lacks the same intensity.
- Dry the Chicken Before Cooking: Patting the chicken dry ensures a golden, crispy exterior rather than a steamed texture.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the sauce and provides the best texture.
- Choose a Quality White Wine: Since the wine plays a significant role in the sauce, opt for a dry, crisp variety like Sauvignon Blanc rather than a sweet or overly cheap wine.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Sear it just until it’s golden and cooked through, then set it aside while preparing the sauce.
A Dish for Any Occasion
Chicken Scampi is a versatile meal that works for a variety of occasions. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to cook. At the same time, its rich, indulgent flavors make it ideal for date nights, family gatherings, or dinner parties. The elegant presentation and restaurant-quality taste will impress your guests while requiring minimal effort in the kitchen.
For meal prepping, Chicken Scampi can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion:
Chicken Scampi is a dish that perfectly marries simplicity with sophistication. With its buttery garlic sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it delivers comforting flavors with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
