Chicken Scampi

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Introduction:

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Italy with our Chicken Scampi recipe. Bursting with garlic, butter, and zesty lemon, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic shrimp scampi. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Scampi is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create this delicious Italian-inspired dish that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in bite size pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoon butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup dry white wine sauvignon blanc is a good choice
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 12 ounces thin spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • ⅔ cup grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together the flour and Italian seasoning. Dry the chicken pieces real well with paper towels.  Dredge the pieces in the flour mixture.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on the bottom. Flip and cook until browned on the other side. The chicken should be cooked through. Transfer the chicken pieces to a plate.
  3. Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute while stirring continuously. Carefully add the wine and red pepper flakes. Return the heat to medium and cook until it is reduced by half scraping the bottom of the pan to get the brown bits off.
  4. Meanwhile bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain well.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the lemon juice. Add the chicken back to the skillet cooking for just a minute to warm it up. Add the drained pasta to a large serving bowl and pour the sauce and the chicken over the top. Sprinkle with parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss to coat. If the pasta becomes dry simply add a little of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For best results serve promptly.

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot: Chicken Scampi is best served hot, straight from the skillet, to ensure that the chicken remains tender and the sauce is warm and flavorful. Serve immediately after cooking for the best dining experience.
  2. Pair with Pasta or Bread: Chicken Scampi pairs perfectly with cooked pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce.
  3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish Chicken Scampi with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness. The herbs not only enhance the presentation but also add a burst of flavor to the dish.
  4. Add a Side Salad: Accompany Chicken Scampi with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or Caesar dressing. The crisp, refreshing salad provides a contrast to the rich flavors of the dish and adds texture to the meal.
  5. Serve Family-Style: For a cozy and inviting presentation, serve Chicken Scampi family-style in a large serving dish or skillet. This allows everyone to help themselves and creates a communal dining experience.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  2. Reheating: To reheat refrigerated Chicken Scampi, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the skillet if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
  3. Avoid Freezing: Due to the creamy nature of the garlic butter sauce, it’s not recommended to freeze Chicken Scampi as the sauce may separate or become grainy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for later use.
  4. Portion Control: If preparing Chicken Scampi for meal prep or leftovers, consider portioning it into individual servings before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only the desired amount without having to reheat the entire batch.
  5. Enjoy Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste and texture, enjoy Chicken Scampi within a day or two of cooking. While it can be stored longer, the flavors may diminish over time, so it’s best to enjoy it while it’s fresh.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Chicken Scampi?
    • Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts in Chicken Scampi. They offer a slightly richer flavor and tenderness, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
  2. Is white wine necessary for Chicken Scampi?
    • While white wine adds depth of flavor to the sauce, it is optional. If you prefer not to use wine, you can omit it or substitute it with additional chicken broth. The dish will still be delicious with the garlic, butter, and lemon flavors.
  3. Can I make Chicken Scampi ahead of time?
    • While Chicken Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance, then reheat and assemble just before serving to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
  4. What should I serve with Chicken Scampi?
    • Chicken Scampi pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side salad or steamed vegetables can also complement the dish and add freshness to the meal.
  5. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
    • Absolutely! You can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or cooking vessel to accommodate the increased quantity and adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion:

With its tender chicken, garlic-infused butter sauce, and bright lemon flavor, Chicken Scampi is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to impress. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed with crusty bread, this flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion. Follow our easy recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table tonight!

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