Are you looking for a delectable meal that can leave your family and friends impressed? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Scampi! This dish brings together tender linguine pasta and succulent chicken breast strips in a symphony of flavors that are bound to tantalize your taste buds. You can whip this up in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering. The rich garlic butter sauce, combined with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, elevates the entire meal, ensuring it stands out. Plus, the best part is that it’s easy to prepare—no intricate techniques needed! The unique blend of ingredients in this recipe not only highlights the freshness of the chicken but also takes full advantage of the comforting textures of the linguine. Whether you decide to top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or leave it as is, this Chicken Scampi is an experience in itself!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
To start your delicious Chicken Scampi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later use.
Next, take your sliced chicken breast strips and season them with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, keeping it warm.
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt, creating a rich base for your sauce. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. For an added kick, you can optionally sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, giving your scampi a delightful warmth that complements the other flavors.
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, add in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring gently to incorporate all the elements into a delicious sauce.
At this stage, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the prepared linguine. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are well coated in the aromatic sauce. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Allow all the flavors to marry together over low heat for another minute or two.
Serve the Chicken Scampi hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, to enhance the dish. Enjoy this comforting meal and feel the love infused in every savory bite!
Variations
This Chicken Scampi recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your flavor preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re looking to switch things up, consider using shrimp or scallops in place of chicken for a delightful seafood twist. You can also add a variety of vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
If you’re not a fan of white wine, feel free to skip it and use additional chicken broth instead. For those who enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a hint of cayenne pepper to spice things up. Furthermore, incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add aromatic layers to this dish.
If you’d like to reduce the calories or carbs, try using zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of linguine pasta. They will absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully while adding a healthy touch.
Cooking Notes
Cooking this Chicken Scampi is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few important tips. First of all, make sure your chicken is sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking. A sharp knife is key for achieving perfect thin strips! When sautéing, resist the urge to overcrowd the skillet; doing so may cause the chicken to steam rather than brown.
Pay attention to the garlic, as it can burn quickly if left unattended. Always stir constantly while it’s cooking to achieve that aromatic scent without the bitter taste of burnt garlic. Use fresh herbs wherever possible; they lend a vibrant flavor that dried ones can’t match. To prepare in advance, you can cook the pasta a few hours before and gently reheat it in the sauce, adding a touch of pasta water to loosen it up. Also, keep in mind how important lemon juice is in brightening the dish, so don’t skimp on it!
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Scampi can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread makes for a delightful dining experience. Try serving a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to complement the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, a classic Caesar salad could also work beautifully with this dish. Consider serving with a glass of the same white wine used in the recipe for the perfect pairing!
Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream to the sauce.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine.
- Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook to make the process smoother.
- Try marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before cooking for added depth of flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Scampi ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Cook the pasta until al dente, and keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat with the sauce.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch.
Is Chicken Scampi gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, you can swap out the linguine for a gluten-free pasta alternative.
Can I freeze Chicken Scampi?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the pasta, you can freeze the sauce and chicken mixture. Just reheat gently and combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
What side dishes go well with Chicken Scampi?
Pair your Chicken Scampi with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Chicken Scampi recipe is a fantastic culinary adventure that brings together the charming flavors of comfort food and gourmet flair in one satisfying dish. With its quick preparation and minimal ingredients, it makes a perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner party. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you tried making Chicken Scampi or do you have any variations you prefer? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to pass this recipe along to fellow food lovers who might want to give it a try. Let’s spread the joy of cooking and enjoying good food together!
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Mouthwatering Chicken Scampi
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Scampi recipe is a fantastic culinary adventure that brings together the charming flavors of comfort food and gourmet flair in one satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- To start your delicious Chicken Scampi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later use.
- Next, take your sliced chicken breast strips and season them with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, keeping it warm.
- In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt, creating a rich base for your sauce. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. For an added kick, you can optionally sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, giving your scampi a delightful warmth that complements the other flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, add in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring gently to incorporate all the elements into a delicious sauce.
- At this stage, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the prepared linguine. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are well coated in the aromatic sauce. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Allow all the flavors to marry together over low heat for another minute or two.
- Serve the Chicken Scampi hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, to enhance the dish. Enjoy this comforting meal and feel the love infused in every savory bite!
Notes
Cooking this Chicken Scampi is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few important tips. First of all, make sure your chicken is sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking. A sharp knife is key for achieving perfect thin strips! When sautéing, resist the urge to overcrowd the skillet; doing so may cause the chicken to steam rather than brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 28 g