This Chicken Scampi is a quick, flavorful dish inspired by classic shrimp scampi. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed to perfection and tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with al dente pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to make and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors!
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 20–25 minutes
Total Time
- 30–35 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes . Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1 minute , stirring frequently to prevent burning, until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine (or extra chicken broth) and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the chicken broth and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let it heat through for about 2 minutes .
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Divide the Chicken Scampi among serving plates.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes along with the chicken.
- Pasta Substitutes: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with fresh pasta before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Scampi is a delicious twist on a classic favorite, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The addition of lemon juice and red pepper flakes adds brightness and a hint of spice, while the optional Parmesan cheese and parsley tie it all together. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or something impressive to serve guests, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Ready to make this quick and delicious Chicken Scampi? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of garlicky, buttery goodness—it’s comfort food at its finest!
