Chicken Scampi Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Recipe

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tablespoon parsley, or as needed for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Melt butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Pour in the white wine, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the volume is reduced by half.

Step 3: Stir in lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set the sauce aside while preparing the pasta and chicken.

Step 4: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente (about 8 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 5: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Trim any tendons from the chicken tenderloins, then season with salt and Italian seasoning.

Step 6: Add the chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Remove the lid, flip the chicken, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165F (74C).

Step 8: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 9: Garnish with parsley (optional) and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 635
• Fat: 28g
• Carbs: 34g
• Protein: 51g

Nutrition Breakdown

• Total Fat: 28g (36% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (52% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 149mg (50% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 389mg (17% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 34g (12% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 51g (101% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 15mg (16% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 142mg (11% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 550mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Fascinating Story of Chicken Scampi

Chicken Scampi is a modern twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, shrimp scampi. The original dish, scampi, refers to langoustines, small lobster-like crustaceans, which were sauted in garlic, butter, and wine. As Italian immigrants adapted their cuisine to ingredients more readily available in the United States, chicken became a convenient and hearty substitute. Today, Chicken Scampi is celebrated for combining the rich, garlicky flavors of traditional scampi with tender, juicy chicken, making it accessible for families and busy cooks alike.

Regional Variations and Local Twists

While Chicken Scampi is widely associated with Italian-American cuisine, subtle regional differences exist. In the Northeast, it is often served with a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a slight heat, whereas in the Midwest, the dish may feature extra butter and Parmesan for a creamier sauce. Some West Coast versions incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano, reflecting the regions emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Pasta is the common accompaniment nationwide, though some regions prefer serving it over rice or roasted vegetables for a lighter twist.

How Chicken Scampi Stands Out

Unlike traditional shrimp scampi, Chicken Scampi provides a more substantial and protein-rich alternative. The chicken offers a different texture and heartiness compared to the delicate shrimp, while maintaining the essential scampi flavor profile of garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine. This subtle adaptation also allows for more flexibility in preparation, including the option to brown the chicken for added flavor or simply cook it gently in the sauce, producing a tender, flavorful result.

Typical Serving Occasions

Chicken Scampi is commonly found in both casual home dinners and Italian-American restaurants. It is ideal for weeknight meals due to its quick preparation time of under 30 minutes. In restaurants, it is often served as a main course with spaghetti or linguine, garnished with parsley and Parmesan. At home, it may appear at family gatherings or holiday meals where a comforting, yet elegant dish is desired. Its combination of simplicity and sophistication makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Scampi

• The term "scampi" in Italian originally refers to a type of shellfish, not the cooking style. Using chicken is a purely American innovation.
• Despite the simplicity of its ingredientsgarlic, butter, wine, lemon, and ParmesanChicken Scampi delivers a rich flavor that has made it a beloved classic in Italian-American households.
• The dish pairs exceptionally well with white wines, particularly Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, echoing its Mediterranean roots.
• Some chefs experiment by adding a hint of red pepper flakes, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the delicate balance of butter and garlic.
• Chicken Scampi is often adapted for low-carb diets by replacing pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, showing its versatility across culinary trends.

FAQ about Chicken Scampi Recipe

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