Go Back
A delicious plate of Chicken Scampi is displayed as the featured image for this recipe article.

Easy Chicken Scampi

This Easy Chicken Scampi recipe transforms the classic shrimp scampi flavors into a delicious and satisfying chicken dish. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a buttery, garlicky, and lemon-infused sauce, perfect for serving over pasta for a quick and impressive weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Cooked pasta linguine or spaghetti recommended

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Pasta pot
  • colander

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  7. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
  8. Stir in the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another minute, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  9. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  10. Stir in the fresh parsley.
  11. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional).

Notes

For best results, sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure proper browning. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce. Add the lemon juice at the end to preserve its brightness. Linguine or spaghetti are recommended for serving.