Chicken Scampi Recipe

This Chicken Scampi recipe is a quick and easy dinner idea packed with juicy chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and tender angel hair pasta. Learn how to make restaurant-quality chicken scampi at home with simple ingredients like Parmesan, Asiago cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this flavorful pasta dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb. chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons salted butter

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 8 oz. angel hair pasta
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, divided
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup freshly diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup roughly chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded from a block
• ½ cup Asiago cheese, shredded from a block
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare Ingredients:

1. Measure out all ingredients before starting, as this recipe comes together quickly. Prepare boiling water for the pasta so it’s ready to cook towards the end. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning. Sprinkle with flour and toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Reduce the heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Carefully pour in the white wine and cook for about 3 minutes, reducing by half. Use a silicone spatula to scrape the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
3. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in the skillet. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan along with red pepper flakes and parsley. Toss to coat and reduce the heat to low. Swirl in 1 tablespoon cold butter.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Combine Everything:

1. In a jar or container with a lid, combine the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, Parmesan, and Asiago cheese. Shake well to combine.
2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and pour the pasta water mixture over the top. Use kitchen tongs to toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
3. Garnish with diced tomatoes and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with garlic bread topped with cheese and lemon wedges.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, parsley, and extra red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant Quality at Home: This chicken scampi brings the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant to your kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Uses simple ingredients you may already have on hand.

Tips

• Prep Ahead: Measure and chop all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Fond is Key: Scrape the browned bits from the skillet when cooking the sauce—it adds depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Make it Creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
• No Wine? No Problem!: Replace white wine with chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of angel hair pasta?
Spaghetti or linguine are great alternatives.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Add roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini as a side.

Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying Chicken Scampi at your next dinner! Perfect for family meals or special occasions.