Name: Creamy Chicken Scampi That Will Elevate Your Dinner Game
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Angel Hair Pasta (Alternative: Spaghetti, linguine, or gluten-free pasta if desired.); 1 lb Chicken Tenders (Alternative: Use boneless chicken breasts sliced into strips.); 1 tsp Salt (Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground adds depth and spice.); 1 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Alternative: Use cornstarch for a gluten-free coating.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Adds richness and aids in frying.); 1 cup Bell Peppers (Feel free to mix and match with other peppers.); 1 cup Red Onion (Provides sweetness and color.); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (Substitute with chicken broth for non-alcoholic option.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Crucial for achieving creamy richness.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced for aromatic goodness.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Alternative: Half-and-half for a lighter touch.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Always use freshly grated.); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (Fresh garnish to brighten the dish.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of garlic mingled with the warm embrace of buttery goodness, I knew I was on the verge of something special. This 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is a revelation! In just half an hour, you can transport your taste buds to Italy with tender chicken and a luscious garlic scampi sauce that’s perfect for both romantic dinners and busy weeknights. With only a few ingredients and quick prep time, this dish shines as a comforting favorite while offering that homemade feel we all crave. Whether you’re planning an elegant gathering or simply looking to elevate your regular meals, this recipe is the answer. Curious about how such a delightful meal can come together so effortlessly? Let’s dive into the magic of Chicken Scampi!

Why is Chicken Scampi a Must-Try?

Easily customizable: This recipe is versatile, allowing you to swap in gluten-free pasta or add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach. Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Decadent flavors: The buttery garlic sauce with creamy parmesan will have everyone asking for seconds! Fail-proof cooking: Simple steps ensure that even novice chefs can create a restaurant-worthy dish. If you’re craving other delightful chicken dishes, consider trying Honey Butter Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken. You won’t be disappointed!

Chicken Scampi Ingredients

• Discover all the essentials you need for this creamy Chicken Scampi dish!

For the Pasta

Angel Hair Pasta – The delicate texture makes it perfect for capturing the sauce. Alternative: Spaghetti, linguine, or gluten-free pasta if desired.

For the Chicken

Chicken Tenders – Ideal for juicy, evenly cooked protein. Alternative: Use boneless chicken breasts sliced into strips for similar results.
Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t forget to season your pasta water!
Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds depth and a hint of spice to the dish.

For the Sauce

All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a lovely golden crust when sautéing the chicken. Alternative: Use cornstarch for a gluten-free coating.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in frying the chicken to perfection.
Bell Peppers & Red Onion – Provide sweetness and beautiful color for an inviting presentation. Feel free to mix and match with other peppers for variety.
Dry White Wine – Adds complexity to the sauce as it deglazes the pan. Substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
Unsalted Butter – Crucial for achieving that creamy richness in the sauce, ensuring better control over salt levels.
Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness that complements the dish beautifully.
Heavy Cream – Delivers that luxurious creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible. Alternative: Half-and-half for a lighter touch.
Parmesan Cheese – Always use freshly grated for the best flavor and texture. Alternative: Pecorino Romano can offer a sharper taste if preferred.
Chopped Parsley – A fresh garnish that brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Armed with these ingredients, you’re set to create an unforgettable Chicken Scampi that will elevate your dinner game!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the starchy pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the Chicken Scampi.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken tenders generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring they’re well-coated. Next, dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This step is crucial for achieving a golden crust. You’ll want to have a skillet ready to go for cooking the chicken in the next step.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken tenders to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, keeping it warm.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add bell peppers and red onion, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Scrape up any delicious brown bits left from the chicken as you stir. Once softened, remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken, allowing the skillet to retain all those flavorful juices.

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet
Lower the heat slightly and pour in the dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet for all those flavorful brown bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes, which helps to concentrate its flavors and evaporate some of the alcohol, while creating a delicious base for your Chicken Scampi.

Step 6: Make the Sauce
Add a couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, creating a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the reserved pasta water, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer the sauce until the cheese is melted and the flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring your Chicken Scampi is rich and velvety.

Step 8: Combine Everything
Finally, add the cooked angel hair pasta and sautéed vegetables back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that every strand of pasta is coated in the creamy Chicken Scampi sauce. Once everything is heated through, it’s ready to serve – just plate up your creation with the warm chicken on top, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and a garnish of fresh parsley.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi

Salt the Water: Heavily salt your pasta water (1-2 tablespoons per gallon) to ensure the pasta is flavorful and elevates the entire Chicken Scampi dish.
Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save that starchy pasta water! It helps thicken the sauce and binds it to the pasta perfectly.
Cook Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce later on.
Dry Chicken: Ensure your chicken is dry before dredging it in flour—this helps the coating adhere better and achieve a perfect golden crust.
Avoid Crowding: If your skillet is crowded, cook the chicken in batches. This guarantees even cooking and that beautiful, seared effect.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Scampi

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to retain the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezer: If freezing, pack the Chicken Scampi in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop with a little added cream.

Reheating: For best results, reheat Chicken Scampi on the stovetop, avoiding the microwave to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. Adding a dash of water or cream helps achieve the right consistency.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Chicken Scampi at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Enjoy your creamy Chicken Scampi fresh for the best flavor!

Chicken Scampi Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore new flavors and customize your Chicken Scampi experience with these exciting variations!

Vegetarian: Omit the chicken entirely and replace it with your favorite sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty dish. You might be surprised by how satisfying a veggie-packed scampi can be!
Gluten-Free: Swap angel hair pasta for gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious meal. You can still achieve that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor!
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a delightful kick. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving also brightens the dish beautifully, balancing the richness.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or parsley into the sauce. They add depth and elevate the overall flavor, making every bite a little more vibrant and fresh.
Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, while still keeping that rich consistency. This change makes it perfect for those who are calorie-conscious!
Flavor Boost: Consider stirring in some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts while making the sauce to introduce a delightful tang. These ingredients make the dish more special and exciting!
Seafood Scampi: Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops, cooking them in the same way to transform this recipe into a beautiful seafood dish. It’s a quick and elegant take on scampi!

If you’re looking for more tasty chicken recipes, don’t hesitate to check out Honey Butter Chicken or Tandoori Chicken Tikka, both ready to impress at your next meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Scampi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken tenders and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and dredge the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The same goes for the sautéed peppers and onions—cook them, let them cool, and then refrigerate. When it’s time to serve, heat the skillet and follow the deglazing and sauce-making steps as directed, adding the prepped chicken and vegetables to cook through. This way, your Chicken Scampi remains just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a quick, homemade meal without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Chicken Scampi

Creating the perfect meal around your Chicken Scampi can elevate any dining experience, be it a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that delicious creamy sauce, making every bite more satisfying.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed in tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch that beautifully contrasts the rich flavors of the scampi.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus introduces an earthy complement to the dish, bringing in a lovely vibrant color.
White Wine: A chilled glass of dry white wine echoes the flavors in your sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience. Opt for a Sauvignon Blanc!
Lemon Risotto: Creamy risotto with a hint of lemon elevates your dinner, echoing the dish’s citrus notes while adding a luxurious texture.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with decadent chocolate mousse – its rich flavor will leave everyone dreaming about this delightful dinner!

Each of these pairings adds not just flavor but also a unique texture and element, making your Chicken Scampi dinner even more special. Enjoy crafting your table spread!

Chicken Scampi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for my Chicken Scampi?
Absolutely! For Chicken Scampi, I recommend using chicken tenders for even cooking and tenderness. If you can’t find tenders, boneless chicken breasts cut into strips work just as well. Look for pieces that are firm and have a fresh color—avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell.

How should I store leftover Chicken Scampi?
I often store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water helps regain that creamy texture!

Can I freeze Chicken Scampi?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Scampi for up to 2 months. Pack it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Just warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream to bring back the wonderful sauce consistency.

What should I do if my sauce isn’t creamy enough?
If your sauce isn’t creamy enough, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more heavy cream or some of the reserved pasta water while it’s simmering. Stir gently and let it heat through—this should help thicken and enrich the sauce beautifully. Don’t be shy, adjust until it reaches your desired consistency!

Is this Chicken Scampi recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour to dredge the chicken. Just make sure to check all your sauces and ingredients for gluten to keep everything safe and delicious. Enjoy!

Can I make Chicken Scampi vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the chicken and substitute in extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Alternatively, you can use plant-based chicken alternatives to keep that satisfying texture. The creamy garlic sauce will still be irresistible!