A perfect blend of buttery garlic goodness, zesty lemon, and tender chicken, Chicken Scampi is an Italian-inspired dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. The delicate angel hair pasta soaks up the garlicky, slightly tangy sauce, creating a balanced and mouthwatering meal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this dish delivers bold flavors in under 30 minutes. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce and a crisp white wine for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth substitute)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken tenders, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, white wine, and lemon juice. Stir in Italian seasoning and let it simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley, stirring well to combine everything.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 460 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origins of Chicken Scampi
Chicken Scampi is a variation of the classic Italian-American dish, Shrimp Scampi. The term “Scampi” traditionally refers to a type of small lobster or langoustine cooked in a butter, garlic, and white wine sauce. Over time, variations emerged, with chicken becoming a popular alternative to seafood. This dish retains the same bold flavors—garlicky butter sauce, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes—while using tender chicken as the star ingredient.
Unlike traditional Italian cuisine, Chicken Scampi is more of an Italian-American creation, blending Mediterranean flavors with the convenience of a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. The use of angel hair pasta or linguine allows the light yet flavorful sauce to coat every strand perfectly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi
- Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley make a significant difference in flavor. Bottled lemon juice or pre-minced garlic won’t give the same vibrant taste. - Sear the Chicken Properly
Cooking the chicken in butter and olive oil helps develop a golden crust that enhances the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent proper browning. - Balance the Sauce
The key to a perfect scampi sauce is balancing richness with acidity. Butter adds creaminess, garlic provides depth, white wine (or chicken broth) adds complexity, and lemon juice brings brightness. - Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so be sure to cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite) to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce. - Customize to Your Taste
- Want a spicier kick? Increase the red pepper flakes.
- Prefer a richer sauce? Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamy Chicken Scampi.
- Need extra protein? Add shrimp alongside the chicken for a surf-and-turf twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While freezing is possible, the pasta may become mushy when thawed. If freezing, store the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta.
Reheating:
- For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the chicken and overcook the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
✔️ Flavor-Packed – A perfect balance of buttery, garlicky, and tangy flavors.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Tastes just like a fancy Italian meal but made in your own kitchen.
✔️ Customizable – Make it creamy, spicy, or add extra veggies or proteins.
✔️ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this comforting dish!
What Makes Chicken Scampi So Special?
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Yet Light: The sauce is creamy and buttery but balanced with the acidity of white wine and lemon.
- Versatile: You can serve it with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: The dish feels indulgent yet requires simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Key Ingredients in Chicken Scampi
- Chicken Tenders: Preferred for their tenderness and quick cooking time.
- Garlic & Butter: The base of the flavorful sauce.
- White Wine: Adds depth and slight acidity. Substitute with chicken broth if needed.
- Lemon Juice: Enhances the dish with a bright, fresh flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a subtle heat that elevates the dish.
- Angel Hair Pasta: A delicate pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi
- Sear the Chicken Well: Cook the chicken in a mix of olive oil and butter to create a golden-brown crust, which locks in the juices.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice enhance the flavors significantly. Avoid using bottled lemon juice.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks quickly—be sure to drain it when it’s al dente to prevent mushy noodles.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust the butter, wine, and lemon juice to taste for a well-rounded sauce that’s not too rich or too tangy.
- Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the chicken, scrape up the browned bits in the skillet when adding wine or broth. This adds depth to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Scampi is best enjoyed with sides that complement its rich, buttery sauce. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add a fresh contrast.
- Side Salad: A light Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Greens: Spinach or broccoli pairs well without overpowering the flavors.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the garlic and lemon notes.
Variations and Customizations
🔹 Creamy Chicken Scampi: Add a splash of heavy cream for a velvety texture.
🔹 Spicy Chicken Scampi: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
🔹 Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
🔹 Surf & Turf Twist: Combine chicken with shrimp for an elevated dish.
🔹 Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or roasted cauliflower.
Conclusion
Chicken Scampi is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. With its rich garlic butter sauce, zesty lemon kick, and tender chicken, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different proteins, spice levels, or low-carb options. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite!