Welcome to our delicious Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe! If you’re a fan of rich and creamy pasta dishes, you’re in the right place. This savory dish is loaded with colorful bell peppers, crispy chicken tenders, and a luscious garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for any dinner, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe will have you feeling like you’re dining at Olive Garden in no time!
Introduction
The Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is a dish beloved by many, combining the best of Italian and American flavors. Originating from the traditional Scampi-style cooking method, this dish has become a fan favorite for its mix of tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, combining fresh ingredients like garlic, herbs, and vegetables to create a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also irresistibly delicious. If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe is a must-try.
For more delightful chicken recipes like this, don’t miss out on these: Homemade Costco Chicken Bakes and Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat:
- Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 2 lbs chicken tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs)
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 lb angel hair pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cup chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with chicken broth)
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Optional Substitutions: For those following a gluten-free diet, swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta. You can also replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge the chicken tenders in the mixture, shaking off any excess. Heat olive oil in a skillet and pan-fry the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and cover with foil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is frying, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and red onion for 3-4 minutes. Once tender, add butter and garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Add the chicken broth and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the cream, salt, and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a light boil. Reduce the heat and simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce. Allow the pasta to absorb the flavors for 1-2 minutes. If necessary, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Top the pasta with the fried chicken, garnish with Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and parsley.
Helpful Tips for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic, basil, and parsley. Freshly grated Parmesan also adds a richer taste compared to pre-packaged cheese.
- Substitutions for Wine: If you don’t have white wine on hand or prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace it with extra chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrition to the dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
- Perfect Chicken Sear: To get a golden, crispy sear on the chicken, ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken tenders.
- Best Pasta Texture: Cook your angel hair pasta just until it’s al dente (firm to the bite) to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Creamy Sauce Hack: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce during Step 4.
Serving Suggestions for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi pairs beautifully with:
- A simple Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic breadsticks or warm Italian bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio to complement the light creaminess of the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional info for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat (Per Serving):
- Calories: 621 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 1,340mg
Storage and Leftovers for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Gently heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, freeze the dish (minus the pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine would all work well in this recipe.
2. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan.
4. Is there a vegetarian option?
Swap the chicken with tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Related Recipes for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Lovers
If you loved this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat, you might also enjoy these related recipes:
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this delicious Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe as much as we do! It’s a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen. Let us know in the comments if you tried it or if you added your own special twist. We’d love to hear from you!
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Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe | Easy & Creamy
Description
Welcome to our delicious Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe! If you’re a fan of rich and creamy pasta dishes, you’re in the right place. This savory dish is loaded with colorful bell peppers, crispy chicken tenders, and a luscious garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for any dinner, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe will have you feeling like you’re dining at Olive Garden in no time!
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 2 lbs chicken tenders (or thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs)
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 lb angel hair pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cup chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with chicken broth)
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Optional Substitutions: For those following a gluten-free diet, swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta. You can also replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge the chicken tenders in the mixture, shaking off any excess. Heat olive oil in a skillet and pan-fry the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and cover with foil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is frying, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the sliced bell peppers and red onion for 3-4 minutes. Once tender, add butter and garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Add the chicken broth and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the cream, salt, and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a light boil. Reduce the heat and simmer.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce. Allow the pasta to absorb the flavors for 1-2 minutes. If necessary, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Top the pasta with the fried chicken, garnish with Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and parsley.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic, basil, and parsley. Freshly grated Parmesan also adds a richer taste compared to pre-packaged cheese.
- Substitutions for Wine: If you don’t have white wine on hand or prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace it with extra chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrition to the dish.
