This Chicken Scampi recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines juicy chicken with delicate angel hair pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. The vibrant bell peppers add a pop of color and flavor that will impress guests and satisfy your family’s cravings. Enjoy the restaurant-quality taste right at home with this quick and easy Chicken Scampi!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- For the Pasta & Sauce:
- For Garnish
- How to Make Chicken Scampi
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Step 4: Combine & Serve
- How to Serve Chicken Scampi
- Pair with Fresh Salad
- Use Garlic Bread
- Add a Touch of Citrus
- How to Perfect Chicken Scampi
- Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chicken Scampi
- Reheating Chicken Scampi
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chicken Scampi?
- Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
- How Do I Make Chicken Scampi Gluten-Free?
- What Can I Serve with Chicken Scampi?
- How Should I Customize My Chicken Scampi?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
- Rich Flavor: The buttery garlic sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates simple ingredients.
- Versatile Options: Easily swap out chicken for shrimp or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Colorful Presentation: The vibrant vegetables make this dish as visually appealing as it is tasty.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and this Chicken Scampi is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Chicken Scampi preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Shallow dish
- Cooking spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: An essential tool for searing chicken and making the sauce in one pan, enhancing flavors.
- Pot: Needed for boiling pasta; a medium-sized pot is perfect for cooking angel hair.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.
- Shallow dish: Ideal for dredging chicken in seasoned flour, allowing 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Scampi
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a medium-sized pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken tenders in the seasoned flour, coating them evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 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
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in crushed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Simmer for about 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream. Once simmering, add Parmesan cheese, remaining salt, and chili flakes if using.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until coated evenly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the pasta mix.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy Chicken Scampi with its delightful blend of flavors!
How to Serve Chicken Scampi
Serving Chicken Scampi can elevate your dining experience with its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dish.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing complement the richness of the scampi.
- Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a burst of flavor that balances the meal.
Use Garlic Bread
- Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella or Parmesan for an extra cheesy treat.
Add a Touch of Citrus
- Lemon Wedge: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken scampi just before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Zest Garnish: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Perfect Chicken Scampi
Perfecting your Chicken Scampi requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for outstanding results.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear until golden brown but ensure it remains juicy by cooking just until done.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps thicken sauces while adding flavor, making it essential for a creamy finish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding more salt or pepper can enhance the dish’s overall profile.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add aromatic depth to your scampi.
- Serve Immediately: For best texture and taste, serve Chicken Scampi right after cooking while it’s still warm.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Chicken Scampi meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this flavorful entrée.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements any pasta dish.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp, fresh contrast to the rich sauce of Chicken Scampi.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds both color and nutrition to your plate.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is a great way to soak up any leftover sauce from your scampi.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite alongside your main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the Chicken Scampi beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make small missteps that can affect the outcome of their Chicken Scampi. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:
- Incorrect Pasta Cooking Time: Overcooking angel hair pasta can lead to mushy noodles. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can make your dish bland. Ensure you coat the chicken with flour, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save pasta water means losing a key ingredient for thickening the sauce. Always reserve some before draining!
- Using Low-Quality Wine: Using poor-quality wine can compromise flavor. Choose a good dry white wine for better taste in your sauce.
- Rushing the Sauce Preparation: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent flavors from developing. Allow time for simmering to enhance richness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Scampi in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Scampi
- Freeze Chicken Scampi in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chicken Scampi
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Scampi?
Chicken Scampi is a creamy pasta dish made with pan-seared chicken tenderloins tossed in a garlic butter sauce, typically served with angel hair pasta.
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping the same delicious flavors.
How Do I Make Chicken Scampi Gluten-Free?
To make Chicken Scampi gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your flour is also gluten-free.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Scampi?
Chicken Scampi pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. These sides complement its rich flavors perfectly.
How Should I Customize My Chicken Scampi?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili flakes if desired.
Final Thoughts
This colorful and creamy Chicken Scampi is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you keep it classic or add unique ingredients, it’s sure to impress at any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe at home!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintChicken Scampi
Indulge in a delightful Chicken Scampi that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a gourmet experience. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken tenders tossed with angel hair pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce infused with vibrant bell peppers and fresh parsley. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your family’s cravings. Whether you stick to the classic chicken or switch it up with shrimp or zucchini noodles, this dish promises rich flavors and colorful presentation that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Searing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenderloins
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup whipping cream
- 4 cloves garlic
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 red onion, sliced into half-moons
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Dredge the chicken tenderloins in seasoned flour (flour mixed with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper) and sear them in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté sliced onions and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes. Add crushed garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze with white wine, simmering for 4 minutes. Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream; add Parmesan cheese.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce, add chicken back to the skillet, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
