Indulge in this delectable chicken scampi recipe, where tender chicken breasts are sautéed to perfection in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy a culinary experience that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Lemon wedges for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by cooking the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
8. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce, and heat for another 2 minutes.
10. Serve the chicken over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation. If you prefer a non-alcoholic dish, replace white wine with additional chicken broth or lemon juice for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken scampi pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. A side of steamed asparagus or a crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce moist. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; use a meat thermometer.
- Not deglazing the pan can leave a burnt taste.
- Skipping the garlic can diminish the flavor of the dish.
- Using too much heat can burn the butter; keep it medium.
- Not seasoning the pasta water can lead to bland noodles.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken in lemon juice for added flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance the dish visually.
- Experiment with different pasta types for variety.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. This will help achieve the desired tenderness.
What wine should I use for chicken scampi?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth.
Can I make chicken scampi ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
What sides pair well with chicken scampi?
Garlic bread, steamed broccoli, or a Caesar salad are excellent choices to accompany this dish, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor.
Is chicken scampi gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This chicken scampi recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a must-try for any home cook. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it is sure to impress at any dinner table. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savoring this delicious dish!
Chicken Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine optional
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce, and heat for another 2 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over the cooked pasta, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
