Indulge in the savory flavors of our chicken scampi recipe, where tender chicken meets a luscious garlic and butter sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into this culinary delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp 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: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce and pasta): Calories: 550, Protein: 38g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 2g.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by cooking the linguine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
8. Stir in the red pepper flakes and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
9. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, allowing it to soak in the sauce for a couple of minutes.
10. Toss the cooked linguine in the skillet until well coated with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. You can also replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken scampi pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy, not dry.
- Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as it can turn bitter.
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor; dried herbs can be less potent.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken; it helps retain moisture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice before cooking.
- Use high-quality pasta for the best texture.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme.
- Consider adding cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make chicken scampi without wine?
Yes, you can substitute wine with extra chicken broth or water for a non-alcoholic version.
What type of pasta is best for chicken scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti works best, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Is chicken scampi a healthy meal option?
It can be healthy when made with lean chicken and served with vegetables; portion control is key.
Conclusion
Our chicken scampi recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a deliciously rich flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table. With its buttery garlic sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that combines comfort and elegance. Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones for a truly satisfying dining experience.
Chicken Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine optional
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the linguine 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 to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, allowing it to soak in the sauce.
- Toss the cooked linguine in the skillet until well coated with the sauce.
