If you’re seeking a delightful culinary experience with a splash of elegance, look no further than this delicious chicken scampi recipe. Bursting with rich flavors and easy to prepare, this dish will become a staple in your home cooking repertoire, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Growing up, this dish was a family favorite during Sunday gatherings. My grandmother would always jazz up our typical scampi with her unique twist, adding a pinch of smoked paprika that brought a warm, comforting aroma filling the house. Her secret ingredient inspired my version, which I’m thrilled to share with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken scampi recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also a breeze to make. With minimal ingredients and a short preparation time, it’s the perfect go-to for both busy weeknights and glamorous dinner parties. Its versatility allows you to pair it with a variety of sides, and the blend of garlic, lemon, and white wine promises to excite your taste buds.
Ingredients Notes
Choosing the right ingredients elevates this dish to restaurant quality. Use fresh garlic and squeeze your own lemon juice for the brightest flavors. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, and feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture. Quality white wine is essential — pick one you’d enjoy drinking!
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and smoked paprika for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the chicken absorbs maximum flavor.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes each.
Step 3
Remove the chicken from the skillet and add sliced onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then deglaze with white wine, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 4
Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat, and simmer gently, allowing the sauce to reduce and infuse all its flavors into the chicken.
Step 5
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley just before serving. This adds a zesty freshness that brightens up the entire dish.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken. For freezing, place the completely cooled chicken scampi in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air, and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, replace the usual butter with plant-based margarine or simply use olive oil. To spice up the dish, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick. If you’re avoiding alcohol, substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version that retains robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with al dente pasta, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Serve at an intimate dinner for two, a family meal, or a friendly gathering, and watch it dazzle your guests. A crisp white wine complements this dish perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can certainly use chicken thighs. They tend to have a richer flavor and juicier texture, which some may prefer over the leaner chicken breasts.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
While the white wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce, it’s not absolutely necessary. You can substitute it with chicken broth for a similar moisture content and a lighter flavor profile.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free as it does not include wheat-based ingredients. However, ensure that any side you choose, like pasta, is made from gluten-free alternatives such as rice pasta or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Whip Up Delicious Chicken Scampi in 7 Simple Steps!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz pasta such as fettuccine
- 4 lbs chicken breast cut into strips
- 5 tbsp olive oil divided
- 4 cups Parmesan cheese shredded
Scampi Sauce
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 8 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine such as Chardonnay
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter.
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for a few minutes, then add the heavy cream.
- Add the chicken back into the sauce, followed by the cooked pasta and remaining butter. Toss everything to combine.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving warm.
