Are you craving that creamy, garlicky goodness of Olive Garden's Chicken Scampi? Do you dream of perfectly cooked chicken and succulent pasta bathed in a rich, lemony sauce? Well, dream no more! This recipe lets you recreate that restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own home, saving you money and offering a delicious homemade meal. It's easier than you think, promising a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to enjoy this healthy and satisfying dish!
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Easy Recipe
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Everything you need can likely be found in your local grocery store.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Making Your Homemade Chicken Scampi
This recipe is designed for ease and speed, making it an ideal quick dinner option. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, delicious Chicken Scampi.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Creamy Goodness
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure that the chicken browns properly and cooks evenly.
- Fresh garlic is best: Using fresh garlic will give your sauce a much more vibrant and flavorful taste than using pre-minced garlic.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
Variations: Making it Your Own
This recipe is a great base, but feel free to experiment with different variations:
- Add vegetables: Include sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Use different pasta: Try fettuccine, angel hair, or even shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Scampi! It’s a fantastic easy recipe, healthy meal option, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Remember to share your creations with us!