Who doesn’t love a deliciously hearty pasta dish that brings the flavors of Olive Garden right into your kitchen? This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi copycat recipe is loaded with colorful bell peppers, savory red onions, and tender chicken, all combined in a creamy, garlicky sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or an elevated weekend meal, this scampi is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable dish that’s easy to make and absolutely satisfying.

The appeal of this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal that rivals any restaurant experience. Besides being a hit with kids and adults alike, the combination of fresh vegetables and succulent chicken enveloped in a rich cream sauce makes it both a comfort food and a nourishing meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself on a quiet night in, this dish promises to elevate your dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Hearty and Delicious: This dish is packed with flavor and satisfying textures, making it a complete meal on its own.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can have a fantastic dinner ready in no time!
Customizable: Adapt it with your favorite proteins and vegetables to make it uniquely yours.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the peppers and fresh herbs create a feast for the eyes!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this mouthwatering Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. Have your workspace organized, ensuring that all your ingredients are readily available. Start by measuring out the olive oil, flour, and seasonings to streamline the cooking process.

For this recipe, you will need a large skillet for browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies, along with a big pot for cooking the angel hair pasta. Make sure to have a sharp knife and cutting board handy for slicing the vegetables. A mixing bowl can be helpful to combine the flour and spices for the chicken. Lastly, keep measuring cups and spoons on hand for precise quantities.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
2 lbs chicken tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breast/thighs)
1 cup flour
2 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 lb angel hair pasta (cooked al dente)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1 red onion (thinly sliced)
3 tbsp butter
5 cloves garlic (minced)
1 ½ cup chicken broth
½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with chicken broth)
⅔ cup heavy cream
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Fresh basil (finely chopped)
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To start, grab a large shallow dish and combine the flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in it. This mixture will create a delightful crust for your chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor. Take your chicken tenders and coat them in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping during cooking. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, covering it with foil to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While you’re cooking the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — typically just a few minutes. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Be sure to reserve one cup of the pasta water before draining it, as this liquid can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. After reserving the water, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Prepare to infuse your scampi with vibrant flavors by sautéing the vegetables next. Wipe your skillet clean with a paper towel to remove any leftover bits from the chicken. Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the red onion. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes or until they soften. This step is crucial, as it builds the dish’s flavor profile while enhancing the overall look of your pasta.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

With the vegetables softened, it’s time to create a rich, creamy sauce. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt before adding the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, as this can lead to a bitter taste. Next, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth, if you prefer) while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step is vital for incorporating the flavors left behind by the chicken. After that, add the chicken broth and let it cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Finally, stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt, mixing everything until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken with the Sauce

Now it’s time for the grand finale! Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing it well to ensure every strand is evenly coated in that luscious creaminess. If the sauce appears too thick, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Now, gently place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta, allowing it to warm through in the dreamy sauce. Once everything is combined and heated, it’s ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp, which can be sautéed quickly and offer a different flavor profile, or use grilled chicken for added smokiness.
Vegetables: To suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand, feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach.
Spices: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Cooking Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients like minced garlic and fresh herbs.
If you prefer a lighter option, consider using half and half instead of heavy cream.
For a gluten-free option, replace the pasta with gluten-free noodles or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and simply combine them with pasta when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and basil to enhance the flavor.
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Tips

Be mindful of the pasta cooking time; angel hair noodles cook very quickly!
Experiment with different herbs and seasonings until you find the perfect balance for your palate.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor; this dish is not as pleasant when reheated due to the creamy sauce consistency.
If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few additional minutes before adding the pasta.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Varies per serving depending on portion size and specific ingredients.
Protein: Approximately 40g
Sodium: Approximately 800mg

FAQs

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, consider omitting the chicken and adding tofu or additional vegetables. You can use vegetable broth for the sauce.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine complements the dish well, but you can substitute it entirely with chicken broth if you prefer. Sauvignon Blanc is a great option.

How spicy can I make it?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the heat according to your preference, starting with a small amount and adjusting as necessary.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi copycat recipe is a meal you’ll want to come back to again and again. With its rich, creamy sauce, colorful vegetables, and savory chicken, it’s a true feast for the senses. Enjoy the comforting flavors and inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this satisfying dish. We encourage you to comment below with your own variations or tips, and don’t forget to share with friends and family to spread the joy of delicious home-cooked meals. Give it a try tonight, and you might find yourself so delighted that it becomes a regular in your weekly meal rotation!