This Chicken Scampi recipe delivers a delicious, restaurant-quality meal right at home. Tender chicken tenderloins are cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of dry white wine, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Serve this savory, flavorful dish over your favorite pasta for a satisfying dinner that’s quick and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:
- 1½ lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- Cooked pasta (spaghetti or angel hair)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the white wine and let it reduce by half, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the lemon juice, salt, black pepper, parsley, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and simmer on medium-low heat until the chicken is warmed through.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite al dente pasta, then serve the chicken and sauce over the pasta. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.
Notes:
- You can substitute chicken broth for white wine if preferred.
- Use any pasta you like, though spaghetti and angel hair pair particularly well.
- This recipe works with chicken breasts or thighs, in addition to tenderloins.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Add red onion, bell peppers, or capers for extra flavor.
- A splash of heavy cream can create a richer sauce.
- Feel free to sprinkle in some Italian seasoning or thyme for an herbal note.
Helpful Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of chicken? Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for tenderloins. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.
- What kind of white wine should I use? A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works best. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a good substitute.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? The chicken can be cooked in advance, but it’s best to prepare the sauce and pasta just before serving to keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
- Can I freeze Chicken Scampi? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Try adding red onion, bell peppers, or capers for extra flavor. You can sauté these vegetables with the garlic before adding the wine.
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, you can use any gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the scampi.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a healthy and colorful side.
- Rice: For a different twist, serve the chicken scampi over a bed of fluffy rice instead of pasta.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that pairs well with the buttery sauce.
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