Chicken Scampi Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This recipe makes a deliciously creamy chicken and spaghetti dish with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, its both simple and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast tenders
• 1 pound spaghetti pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally until tender but still firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 10 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken should read 165F (74C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add the chopped shallots and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, until softened.

Step 4: Add the garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the broth cook down, reducing by half, for about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Add the cooked spaghetti and chicken tenders back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Step 7: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 582
• Total Fat: 32g (41% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 68mg (23% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1087mg (47% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 48g (18% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (9% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 26g (52% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 42mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (12% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 510mg (11% 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.

Chicken Scampi Pasta combines the savory goodness of garlic, butter, and lemon with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Its a dish thats sure to satisfy cravings for something both hearty and light. But whats the story behind this delicious plate? Let's explore its origins, regional variations, and some interesting facts.

History of Chicken Scampi Pasta

The word "scampi" originates from the Italian term for a type of crustacean, the Norway lobster. Traditional Italian scampi dishes feature shrimp, garlic, butter, and lemon, with a light pasta or bread base. However, the "chicken" version of scampi is an American adaptation that arose as a way to make the dish more affordable and versatile. The substitution of chicken for shrimp in scampi pasta became popular in the United States during the late 20th century, especially in Italian-American cuisine.

Regional Variations

While the dish is widely recognized in the United States, particularly in Italian-American households and restaurants, the original scampi is more closely associated with the coastal regions of Italy, such as the Amalfi Coast and the island of Sicily. These areas are famous for their seafood dishes, where fresh shrimp and lobster are a staple. The chicken variation seen today differs from the traditional Italian recipes, often offering a heartier, more filling meal due to the inclusion of chicken, which is widely accessible and cost-effective compared to seafood.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

Chicken Scampi Pasta stands out from similar dishes such as Chicken Alfredo and Shrimp Scampi due to its distinct garlic-butter-lemon flavor profile. While Chicken Alfredo is cream-based, making it richer and heavier, Chicken Scampi is lighter, with the tanginess of lemon and the depth of garlic creating a more refreshing, zesty dish. The primary difference between Shrimp Scampi and Chicken Scampi lies in the protein: shrimp provides a sweet, briny flavor that complements the garlicky sauce, while chicken offers a milder taste and more substantial texture. Additionally, Shrimp Scampi is often served over linguine or spaghetti, whereas Chicken Scampi may be served with any pasta, including spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.

Where is it Usually Served?

Chicken Scampi Pasta is typically served in casual dining settings, from Italian-American family restaurants to modern bistros. It is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying dinner, perfect for weeknight meals or when entertaining guests. The dish is especially common in places where Italian cuisine has a strong influence, such as New York, Chicago, and parts of New Jersey. It is also found on menus of chain restaurants like Olive Garden, where its often marketed as a delicious, comforting meal with a gourmet twist.

Fun Facts About Chicken Scampi Pasta

• Though it is called "scampi," the dish doesnt always include the traditional scampi (shrimp). In fact, many versions of the dish are made with chicken or other proteins like lobster, making it a flexible recipe for home cooks.
• Chicken Scampi Pasta is a fantastic leftover dish. The flavors tend to marinate and blend together, making it just as delicious (if not better) the next day.
• While the dish is based on a Mediterranean theme, the American version of Chicken Scampi often includes additional ingredients like shallots and extra herbs to enrich the flavor.
• Because of its mix of fresh ingredients like lemon and parsley, Chicken Scampi Pasta is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal with healthy fats, protein, and fiber from the pasta.

Whether you're cooking it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Chicken Scampi Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that offers the perfect balance of flavors. Its a dish that brings a taste of Italy to your table, with a modern twist to make it even more versatile and accessible.

FAQ about Chicken Scampi Pasta Recipe

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