Chicken Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken strips with a savory garlic and butter sauce, served over linguine pasta, creating a delightful Garlic Butter Pasta. This recipe offers a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds with its simple ingredients and easy steps. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this Chicken Scampi is sure to become a beloved family staple. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable dish!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi
I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of savory comfort and vibrant flavors. The Chicken Scampi is a Garlic Butter Pasta that pairs juicy, golden chicken with a rich, garlicky sauce that clings to every strand of linguine. It’s quick to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes, and versatile enough for cozy family meals or impressing guests. The fresh lemon juice and parsley add a bright finish, making each bite of this Chicken Scampi irresistible.
Ingredients for Chicken Scampi
Here’s what you’ll need for Chicken Scampi (serves 4):
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Tips
- Pasta: Linguine for tradition; spaghetti or fettuccine works too.
- Chicken: Breasts for lean protein; pat dry for even browning.
- Butter: Unsalted for flavor control; melt slowly to avoid burning.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for bold taste; mince finely to avoid burning.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness; adjust to taste.
Directions for Chicken Scampi
Let’s create this mouthwatering Chicken Scampi!
Cook the Pasta
- I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 8 oz linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- I drain in a colander and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water for the sauce if needed.
Season and Cook Chicken
- I season 2 sliced chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté the chicken strips for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- I remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, I melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.
- I add 4 minced garlic cloves and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- I pour in ½ cup chicken broth and ¼ cup dry white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom.
- I simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly, then stir in 2 tbsp lemon juice and ¼ cup chopped parsley.
Combine and Serve
- I return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- I add the cooked linguine and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
- I serve the Chicken Scampi hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~500 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 30g protein, 22g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for Chicken Scampi
Try these twists on Chicken Scampi:
- Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with ½ lb shrimp for a seafood Garlic Butter Pasta.
- Veggie Boost: Add 1 cup sautéed zucchini or bell peppers for a heartier Garlic Butter Pasta.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Herb Twist: Use 1 tbsp basil or oregano instead of parsley for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Swap linguine for gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares for a sweet-savory dinner party.
- Serve with garlic bread or a Caesar salad for a classic Garlic Butter Pasta meal.
- Offer at a casual gathering with a glass of white wine for effortless elegance.
Storage
I store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, cooling it to room temperature first to prevent sogginess. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce, or microwave for 1–3 minutes, stirring halfway. For freezing, I portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, where it keeps for up to 3 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a bit of olive oil or broth to restore moisture.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Plate Chicken Scampi with a sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan for a vibrant look.
- Garnish: Add a lemon wedge or extra red pepper flakes for a customizable touch.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a Pinot Grigio, sparkling water, or iced tea to complement Chicken Scampi.
- Temperature: Serve hot for the best sauce consistency and pasta texture.
- Portion Size: One-quarter of the dish per person for a satisfying meal.
FAQs About Chicken Scampi
Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine pasta is traditionally used in Chicken Scampi, you can easily swap it out for your favorite pasta variety such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta shape.
Can I omit the white wine from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the white wine if you prefer. The wine adds depth of flavor to the sauce, but the dish will still be delicious without it. You can simply increase the amount of chicken broth to compensate for the omitted wine or just leave it out entirely.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The amount of red pepper flakes added to the recipe is relatively small (just 1/4 teaspoon), so it adds a subtle hint of heat without being overwhelming. However, if you’re sensitive to spice or prefer a milder dish, you can omit the red pepper flakes altogether, and the Chicken Scampi will still be flavorful and enjoyable.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While Chicken Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. You can cook the chicken strips and prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and serve the dish. Simply reheat the components gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to enjoy. Keep in mind that the pasta should be cooked just before serving to maintain its optimal texture.
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Rollatini
- Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Bang Bang Chicken Bowls
Conclusion
With its tender chicken strips, savory garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine pasta, this Chicken Scampi recipe is a surefire way to please your palate. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is both impressive and incredibly easy to make. Give it a try and savor the rich flavors of this delightful Italian-inspired creation. Enjoy!
Chicken Scampi
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook linguine pasta until al dente, then set aside.
- Season chicken breast strips with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, create a fragrant garlic butter sauce with chicken broth, white wine, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Combine cooked chicken and linguine with the sauce, toss until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For an extra kick of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Customize with your favorite pasta shape or additional veggies for a personalized touch.
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