Chicken Scampi Recipe: A Flavorful, Garlicky Pasta Dish

Introduction

Chicken Scampi is a dish that feels like a cozy hug in the form of food. Known for its rich garlic-butter sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it blends both comfort and sophistication. Traditionally, “scampi” refers to shrimp cooked with garlic, butter, and lemon, but replacing shrimp with chicken creates a heartier dish that’s just as irresistible. The chicken absorbs the garlicky, zesty flavors beautifully, offering a meal that’s indulgent yet balanced.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner on the table in less than an hour, but it’s also elegant enough to serve at dinner parties or for special occasions. From the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter to the final sprinkle of Parmesan, every step in preparing Chicken Scampi feels rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to add Chicken Scampi to your cooking rotation:

• Quick and easy: Ready in 30–40 minutes.
• Restaurant-style flavors: Garlic, lemon, butter, and Parmesan create a sauce that feels luxurious.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Can be adapted for spice lovers, low-carb eaters, or veggie enthusiasts.
• Pairs well with many sides: Bread, salad, roasted veggies—the possibilities are endless.

It’s one of those dishes that makes an ordinary evening feel like a special occasion without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced into strips)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta
• Salt for boiling water
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover lightly to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and shallots, cooking until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
2. Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Stir in red pepper flakes and chopped parsley.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

1. Add cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing well so each strand is coated.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
3. Return chicken to the skillet, mixing until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate pasta with chicken on top.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan, and lemon wedges.
• Serve immediately while hot.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Scampi shines on its own, but pairing it with sides elevates the meal:

• Crusty garlic bread for mopping up extra sauce.
• Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Roasted or steamed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus.
• Grilled corn or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi

• Cut chicken thin: Thin strips cook quickly and evenly.
• Don’t burn the garlic: Cook it until fragrant, not browned, to avoid bitterness.
• Balance lemon and butter: Too much lemon can overpower; too little can make the sauce heavy.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
• Save pasta water: It helps bind the sauce to the noodles for a silky finish.

Creative Variations

One of the joys of Chicken Scampi is how versatile it can be:

• Creamy Chicken Scampi: Add ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.
• Vegetable-packed version: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spicy kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
• Low-carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese lovers: Mix in Romano or Asiago for added depth.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Meal prep: Cook chicken and sauce in advance, then toss with pasta before serving.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: While pasta doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 48g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.

What pasta is best?
Linguine and angel hair are traditional, but penne or fettuccine also work.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Swap butter for olive oil and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely—it reheats well and makes for delicious leftovers.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi is proof that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary flavor. With golden, tender chicken, a silky garlic-lemon sauce, and pasta that ties everything together, this dish is both comforting and elegant. It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, making it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Once you make Chicken Scampi at home, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish—it’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Keep it in your regular rotation, and you’ll always have a reliable meal to fall back on when you want something both delicious and wholesome.