Indulge in the irresistible flavors of chicken scampi, a dish that marries tender chicken with the richness of garlic and butter, finished with a splash of lemon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing a touch of elegance to your table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll impress your family and friends with this delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This chicken scampi recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 28g of protein, 30g of fat, and 2g of carbohydrates. This is based on standard ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken scampi pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; aim for a golden brown color.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish; stick to the recommended amount.
- Not letting the sauce reduce enough may result in a watery texture.
- Forgetting to season can lead to bland flavors; don’t skip the salt and pepper.
- Using low-quality broth can affect the overall taste; choose a good one.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juiciness.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
What can I serve with chicken scampi?
Chicken scampi pairs well with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad, making it versatile for any meal.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.
What should I do if I don’t have fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn’t available, you can use dried parsley or omit it altogether. Chives or basil can also work as a substitute.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chicken scampi is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients for an impressive meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the deliciousness of chicken scampi any night of the week!
Chicken Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides.