Olive Garden Scampi Chicken Recipe
Have you ever taken a bite of Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi and thought, "I wish I could make this at home"? Well, you’re in luck! We’re bringing the flavors of this Italian-American favorite right to your own kitchen with a step-by-step guide to recreating the famous Olive Garden Chicken Scampi.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Saucepan (for pasta)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Airtight container (for leftovers)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken tenderloins – Tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – To coat the chicken and give it a golden crust.
- Salt and black pepper – A must for seasoning.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For that perfect pan-sear.
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter – Creamy and indulgent.
- 4 garlic cloves minced – The star of the sauce for its bold flavor.
- ½ cup vegetable broth – Adds depth and a subtle savory flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The foundation of the creamy sauce.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the entire dish.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for extra savory goodness.
For the Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz angel hair pasta – Thin and delicate the ideal base for the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper sliced julienne – Sweet and vibrant.
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced julienne – Adds color and crunch.
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced – A touch of sharpness to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
- Fresh parsley chopped – For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Cut the bell peppers into thin strips, chop the garlic, and cut the chicken breasts into small pieces so they cook evenly. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken. At the same time, boil some salted water in a medium-sized pot for the pasta. Getting everything ready now will make cooking much easier!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- When the water in the saucepan starts boiling, add the pasta and cook it following the instructions on the package until it’s firm but not hard. This usually takes 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. When done, drain the pasta but keep a cup of the water to use later for the sauce. Put the pasta aside and move to the next steps.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a big pan over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. When the oil looks shiny, place the seasoned chicken pieces in the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Once done, move the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Then, add the chopped garlic and sliced bell peppers. Cook them over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the garlic smells nice. The peppers will add a sweet taste and bright color to the dish.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Scampi Sauce
- Turn the heat to low and mix in the butter and heavy cream with the cooked vegetables. Keep stirring to make a smooth, creamy sauce. Add a little salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the saved pasta water to make it thinner. Let it cook gently for 2-3 minutes so the flavors blend together.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the pan with the creamy sauce and veggies. Mix everything well so it’s all coated in the sauce. Let it cook for 2-3 more minutes until warm. Serve the Chicken Scampi right away with some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top for extra flavor.
Notes
This Chicken Scampi recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to create a perfectly balanced flavor. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley to elevate the presentation and taste of the dish.