Chicken Scampi

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There’s something irresistibly captivating about Italian cuisine, where simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors. One dish that embodies this essence is Chicken Scampi. Known for its succulent, tender chicken cloaked in a velvety garlic butter sauce and nestled over delicate strands of pasta, Chicken Scampi is a restaurant-worthy meal that can now be the star of your dinner table. This dish is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or any evening when you want to indulge in a luxurious yet surprisingly straightforward dinner.

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The Appeal of Chicken Scampi

Chicken Scampi merges the savory, buttery notes of garlic-infused sauce with the bright tang of lemon and the earthy sweetness of shallots. Paired with golden, crispy-coated chicken tenders and al dente pasta, this dish offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The touch of white wine and a sprinkle of fresh parsley add sophistication, while Parmesan lends a satisfying umami finish. Each bite is an invitation to savor rich, aromatic layers that delight the palate.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ensuring the success of this dish starts with understanding the role of each ingredient and why they contribute to its rich flavor profile.

• 12 oz Angel Hair Pasta or Spaghetti: A delicate pasta that soaks up the garlic butter sauce beautifully, angel hair is ideal for a light and airy texture. Spaghetti is a suitable alternative for a slightly more substantial bite.
• 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders: Tender and lean, chicken tenders cook quickly and remain juicy. They’re the perfect choice for this dish, providing a hearty base to complement the flavors of the sauce.
• ½ cup All-Purpose Flour: Used to dredge the chicken, flour helps create a light crust that locks in moisture and adds a golden, crispy texture.
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the chicken with subtle aromatic notes, enhancing the overall profile of the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors throughout.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken.
• 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter (divided): The backbone of the sauce, butter provides a creamy base that carries the garlic and shallot flavors.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with robust, savory undertones that meld seamlessly with the other ingredients.
• ¼ cup Finely Chopped Shallot or Red Onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce, complementing the garlic.
• ¾ cup Dry White Wine: Brings a nuanced acidity and subtle fruitiness that lifts the flavors. Choose a wine that you would enjoy drinking, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• ¼ cup Lemon Juice: Balances the richness with a bright, zesty punch.
• 1 tsp Lemon Zest: Provides an aromatic layer and intensifies the citrus notes.
• ⅓ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley: Fresh and slightly peppery, parsley enhances the dish’s presentation and adds a burst of color.
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Lends a nutty, salty depth that rounds out the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Begin by cooking 12 oz of angel hair pasta in salted boiling water until it reaches an al dente texture. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water—this starchy liquid will be key to bringing the dish together seamlessly.

2. Dredge the Chicken

Combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on a shallow plate. Dredge the chicken tenders in the seasoned flour, ensuring each piece is lightly and evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

3. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing for 1 minute until they become fragrant. The rich aroma of garlic and shallots will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the next steps.

5. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in ¾ cup of dry white wine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce for 3-4 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and leaving behind a concentrated burst of flavor.

6. Brighten with Lemon

Stir in ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp of lemon zest. The citrus will cut through the richness of the sauce, adding a refreshing note.

7. Combine the Elements

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta, the reserved pasta water, chopped parsley, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. The starch from the pasta water will help the sauce adhere perfectly to the noodles, creating a glossy finish.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

The result is a plate brimming with contrasting yet complementary elements. The chicken’s light crust delivers a delicate crunch that yields to a tender, juicy interior. The pasta’s silken texture is enveloped in the buttery garlic sauce, which bursts with lemony brightness and a hint of wine’s subtle fruitiness. Aromas of garlic, shallots, and lemon infuse the air, inviting everyone to the table.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• No White Wine? Substitute with chicken broth for a milder flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for dredging and gluten-free pasta.
• Herb Variations: Add basil or oregano for an extra herbaceous note.
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Scampi with a side of crusty garlic bread and a simple arugula or mixed greens salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Pair with a chilled glass of the same white wine used in the dish for a seamless dining experience.