Garlic Butter Chicken Scampi

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This Garlic Butter Chicken Scampi is a delightful mix of tender chicken strips coated in a rich and zesty garlic butter sauce. The bright lemon juice and white wine bring a tangy freshness that perfectly balances the savory richness of the butter and Parmesan cheese. Tossed with al dente linguine, it creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, yet light enough for a weeknight dinner.

Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this Chicken Scampi is a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes. Serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a dish that feels a bit fancy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Full Recipe:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 oz linguine, cooked
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions:

Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the butter, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss until everything is well combined. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot, with extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Recipe Overview

Garlic Butter Chicken Scampi is a savory Italian-American dish known for its rich flavors and simplicity. Traditionally, scampi refers to a dish made with shrimp, but in this variation, tender chicken strips are used instead. The chicken is sautéed to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious garlic and butter sauce with a zesty twist of lemon and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for those who love the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with a touch of modern comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a sauce that’s both rich and refreshing.
Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of steamed vegetables. You can also customize the recipe by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Kid-Friendly: The mild yet flavorful sauce makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Great for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.

Cooking Tips

Chicken: For the best texture, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into even strips. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Wine: The white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth works just as well.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Pasta: Linguine is a classic choice for scampi, but you can substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free pasta if desired.
Garnish: Fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhance the dish’s presentation and add extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Scampi with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the citrusy, garlicky flavors of this dish.
For a Crowd: This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more guests. It’s an excellent option for family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties.

Nutritional Information

Protein-Rich: The chicken provides a good source of lean protein.
Carbs: Linguine adds a satisfying base, making this a well-rounded meal.
Fats: The butter and olive oil add healthy fats, while the use of Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and additional protein.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes if you like a spicier kick.
Herb Swap: Fresh basil or oregano can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken with tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken scampi over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Storage and Reheating

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

Origin and History

Chicken Scampi is a modern twist on the classic Italian-American dish, Shrimp Scampi. The term “scampi” originally referred to small lobsters or prawns, and the traditional dish consists of shrimp sautéed in a garlic, butter, and white wine sauce. Over time, chicken became a popular substitute for shrimp, catering to those who prefer poultry or are allergic to shellfish. This adaptation has made the dish more accessible and versatile, while still retaining the rich, garlicky, and buttery essence that makes scampi so beloved.

Health Benefits

Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s low in fat and calories, making this dish a healthier choice compared to other creamy pasta dishes.
Antioxidants: Garlic and fresh parsley not only enhance the flavor but also add a boost of antioxidants. Garlic has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and immune system support.
Good Fats: The use of olive oil and butter provides a balance of healthy fats. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Customization Ideas

Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus. These not only add vibrant colors but also provide extra vitamins and fiber.
Cheese Lover’s Twist: For an extra creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce for a richer texture. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust when serving.
Seafood Addition: Incorporate shrimp or scallops along with the chicken for a surf-and-turf experience that elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality meal.

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free, so this swap is easy and keeps the flavor intact.
Low-Sodium: To reduce the sodium content, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth and use unsalted butter. You can also season the dish with herbs and spices instead of relying on salt.

Cooking Techniques

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy, avoid overcooking. Sauté the chicken strips just until they are golden and cooked through. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Deglazing the Pan: After cooking the chicken, deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth. This technique helps lift the flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan, adding depth and richness to the sauce.
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it. Alternatively, stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water if you want to thicken it quickly.

Plating and Presentation

Elegant Presentation: For an elegant presentation, twirl the linguine into nests on each plate and top with the chicken strips. Spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprig of parsley.
Family-Style Serving: Serve the chicken scampi family-style in a large, shallow serving dish. Arrange the pasta in the center, topped with the chicken and sauce, and garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for a rustic, inviting look.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes: Complement this dish with sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli adds a healthy, vibrant contrast to the meal.
Beverages: A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the garlic and lemon notes in the scampi. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice.

Occasions to Serve

Weeknight Dinner: The quick preparation time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy-to-make dish. It’s sophisticated enough for a dinner party but doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Romantic Dinner: Chicken Scampi is a great option for a cozy, romantic dinner at home. Pair it with a nice bottle of wine, and you have a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress.

Tips for Leftovers

Storing: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the dish’s freshness, it’s best to consume it within 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the leftovers on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken tough.
Repurposing: Leftovers can be repurposed into a creamy scampi bake. Simply transfer the scampi into a baking dish, sprinkle with some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Scampi is a delicious, quick, and versatile dish that combines tender chicken, a rich garlic-butter sauce, and a zesty lemon twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to your taste. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!