Lemon Garlic Chicken Scampi: a Weeknight Winner!
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave something garlicky, lemony, and comforting? This chicken scampi recipe is where it’s at. Honestly, the flavour profile is insane. You won’t believe it only takes minutes to make.
Brief Overview
This dish is like a love letter to italian american cuisine. it is easy to cook. from start to finish, you're looking at about 35 minutes.
This recipe makes enough for 4 people, a family friendly option.
Main Benefits
Chicken is a good source of protein, and lemon is always refreshing. This lemon garlic chicken scampi is perfect for a busy weeknight. What makes it special? The sauce, hands down.
The Scampi Sauce is the real star here
Alright, let's dive into what makes this easy chicken scampi recipe stand out. It’s all about that sauce. That delicious, garlicky, lemony sauce.
Do you want a super quick dinner option? this one ticks all the boxes. my favourite chicken scampi with pasta that brings a restaurant worthy dish to your table without the fuss.
It takes less time than waiting for a takeaway.
This isn't your average bland chicken dish. this is a flavour bomb waiting to explode in your mouth. forget the boring chicken dinners! this quick chicken scampi recipe will become a family staple.
Imagine a taste of olive garden chicken scampi at your dinner table, but better!
Let's Talk Ingredients
So, what goes into this magical concoction? grab some chicken breasts, about 1.5 lbs worth. we’re talking boneless, skinless, the usual suspects.
For the sauce, we'll need butter, garlic, lemon, and a few other goodies.
Don't forget the parsley. Fresh parsley really does elevates this dish. Want a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick.
For the wine, you've got options. Dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonders.
But you can also opt out if you are teetotaler. Chicken broth can be substituted.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Fancy creating a restaurant worthy lemon garlic chicken scampi at home? it is so easy! honestly, it's simpler than putting on your slippers.
We'll break down exactly what you need. let's make this easy chicken scampi recipe a reality!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Here’s what you'll need to create this copycat chicken scampi Olive Garden :
Chicken Breasts : 1.5 lbs ( 680g ) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed. Good quality chicken is key. You want plump and pink, not pale and sad-looking.
Olive Oil : 1 tbsp ( 15ml ). Use a good extra virgin olive oil.
Seasoning : 1/2 tsp ( 2.5ml ) salt, 1/4 tsp ( 1.25ml ) pepper. Adjust to your taste!
Flour (optional): 1 tbsp ( 15ml ). This helps thicken the sauce. Skip if you want it gluten-free.
Butter : 4 tbsp ( 56g ) unsalted butter. Don't skimp!
Garlic : 4 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best here. The more the better in my opinion!.
White Wine : 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) dry white wine. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work well. If you don't have wine, chicken broth will do.
Chicken Broth : 1/4 cup ( 60ml ). Low sodium is preferable, so you control the salt.
Lemon Juice : 1/4 cup ( 60ml ), freshly squeezed. Please, use fresh lemon juice. Bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
Lemon Zest : 1 tbsp ( 15ml ). Adds a real zing!
Fresh Parsley : 1/4 cup ( 15g ), chopped. Adds freshness and colour.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): 1/4 tsp ( 1.25ml ). If you like a little kick, add these.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Explosion!
Garlic, lemon, and parsley are a match made in heaven for this scampi sauce . A pinch of red pepper flakes elevates it. You know? Italian American magic!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Honestly, you don't need fancy kit.
- A large skillet.
- A chopping board and knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A citrus zester and juicer (optional, but highly recommended).
That's it! Let's get ready to make this quick chicken scampi recipe !
Lemon Garlic Chicken Scampi Recipe : A Weeknight Winner!
Fancy a restaurant worthy meal without the restaurant price tag? This Chicken Scampi is your answer! It's proper easy, tastes amazing, and even your fussy eaters will be asking for seconds.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place ? sounds fancy, right? honestly, it just means get everything ready before you start! chop your 1.
5 lbs chicken , mince 4 cloves of garlic , juice your lemon, and measure out your bits and bobs.
This step saves loads of time.
Time saving tips ? Use pre-minced garlic if you're short on time. Don't tell anyone I said that! Chop your parsley while the chicken is cooking. Multitasking, innit.
step-by-step to Scampi Sauce Perfection
- Cut chicken breasts into 1 inch cubes. Season with 1/2 tsp salt , 1/4 tsp pepper , and 1 tbsp flour (if using).
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet. Cook chicken until it reaches 165° F or 74° C . About 5- 7 minutes . Remove and set aside.
- Melt 4 tbsp butter in the same skillet. Add 4 minced cloves garlic . Sauté for 30 seconds . Until fragrant, not burnt.
- Pour in 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth ). Scrape up browned bits. Add 1/4 cup chicken broth , 1/4 cup lemon juice , 1 tbsp lemon zest , and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat with sauce. Add 1/4 cup parsley . Serve immediately. Boom!
Pro Tips: Chicken Scampi Olive Garden Style
Want that Copycat Chicken Scampi Olive Garden flavour? Use plenty of butter. They don't skimp!
Don't overcook the chicken ! It's the cardinal sin of cooking chicken. Trust me, nobody likes dry chicken.
make-ahead tip : You can prep the sauce ahead of time. Just add the chicken when you're ready to serve. It will take you just about 20 minutes to make it.
Serving : serve your chicken scampi with pasta . linguine or spaghetti are the classic choice for that perfect weeknight chicken scampi dinner.
This is a quick chicken scampi recipe , super tasty and everyone loves it!
Recipe Notes for Your Chicken Scampi Recipe
Alright, so you're about to tackle this banging chicken scampi recipe . honestly, you'll nail it. but, before you dive in, let's chat about a few things that'll make your life even easier.
Serving Like a Pro
Let's talk plating, yeah? first, pasta is king. linguine is gorgeous for chicken scampi with pasta , but spaghetti works too.
Swirl that pasta high. place the chicken on top, then drizzle with that glorious scampi sauce . oh, my gosh. fresh parsley? essential.
Or, for a low-carb moment, try serving it over cauliflower rice. A simple side salad? Perfection. Oh, and a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio? Chef's kiss.
Storage Secrets
Okay, so maybe you've got leftovers. first off, well done. the easy chicken scampi recipe is super tasty. keep it in an airtight container.
In the fridge, it's good for about 3-4 days . reheat it gently in a pan or microwave. honestly, it's almost better the next day.
Freezing? Not ideal, but doable. The sauce might get a bit weird texture wise. Use it within a month if you choose that option.
Tweaking for Everyone
Want a different twist? Ditch the pasta for zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option. Also, this copycat chicken scampi Olive Garden recipe is easy to adapt.
Or, what if you're feeling creamy? Stir in a splash of cream cheese at the end. Seasonal swaps? Peas in spring, roasted butternut squash in autumn.
Nitty Gritty Nutrition
Right, so let's keep it simple. this lemon garlic chicken scampi is packed with protein. the fat content comes mostly from the olive oil and butter.
So, watch the amount. the lemon juice gives you a vitamin c boost. it's all about balance, yeah?
Cooking should be fun. And, this dish, is quick and delicious. Get in the kitchen, and enjoy your weeknight chicken scampi .
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this chicken scampi recipe suitable for beginners? I'm no Gordon Ramsay!
Absolutely! This chicken scampi recipe is designed with simplicity in mind. If you can chop some chicken and melt butter, you're golden. Just follow the steps, and you'll have a delicious meal on the table in under 40 minutes. Even if your cooking skills are more Mary Berry than Marco Pierre White, you'll nail it.
Can I make this chicken scampi recipe ahead of time?
While chicken scampi is best served fresh, you can definitely prep some components ahead of time. Chop the chicken, mince the garlic, zest the lemon, and measure out the other ingredients. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you're ready to cook, it'll all come together in a flash.
Avoid making the sauce too far in advance, as the lemon can lose its zing.
What's the best way to store leftover chicken scampi, and how long will it last?
Leftover chicken scampi should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over medium low heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist.
I don't have white wine. What can I substitute in this chicken scampi recipe?
No problem at all! The white wine adds a nice depth of flavour, but you can easily substitute it with more chicken broth. Just use an extra 1/4 cup (60ml) of chicken broth in its place. A splash of dry vermouth would also work in a pinch, but chicken broth is the simplest and most readily available alternative.
Can I make a creamy version of this chicken scampi recipe?
You bet! For a creamier chicken scampi, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half and-half at the end of cooking, just before adding the parsley. Let it simmer for a minute or two to thicken slightly. This adds a lovely richness and makes the sauce even more decadent.
Is this chicken scampi recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
This chicken scampi can be part of a balanced diet. It provides a good source of protein from the chicken. To make it healthier, use less butter, whole wheat pasta, and serve with plenty of vegetables on the side.
Remember the nutritional information are estimates and will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Scampi A Weeknight Winner
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |
