Chicken Scampi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple ingredients. The tangy lemon and garlic sauce complements the juicy chicken perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s versatile and can be paired with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.

2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Pour in white wine (or broth) and lemon juice; simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.

7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over to coat.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley.

9. Serve hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation and cooking take about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood version.

• Add capers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

• Substitute lemon zest for a more intense citrus aroma.

• Use gluten-free flour or omit flour for a low-carb version.

• Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for a veggie boost.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work well but may need slightly longer cooking.

How do I prevent chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and baste with sauce during cooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Butter can be substituted with dairy-free margarine or oil.

Can I prepare sauce ahead?

Yes, make sauce in advance and reheat gently.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep refrigerated in airtight containers.

Can I freeze chicken scampi?

Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for best quality.

What pasta pairs well?

Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are traditional choices.

Can I add vegetables?

Add sautéed spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms.

What wine works best for cooking?

Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty, buttery garlic sauce. Perfect for quick dinners or special occasions, it’s a classic recipe that brings bold flavors and comforting textures to your table.