This Copycat Olive Garden Scampi Chicken is a tasty dish with juicy chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s like bringing your favorite restaurant meal home!
I can’t resist the creamy and buttery goodness. It’s perfect over pasta or rice. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you’re only a few steps away from dinner bliss! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are preferred for ease of cooking and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use chicken thighs for richer flavor, or swap with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Heavy Cream: This adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just note that this might change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for authentic flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Freshly grated cheese is always tastier!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—about 1/8 tsp per clove. However, fresh garlic really enhances the dish!
How Do You Get the Sauce Just Right?
Making a creamy sauce is a crucial step in this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfectly smooth:
- Cook your garlic just until fragrant. Avoid burning it as that will add bitterness.
- When you add the chicken broth and heavy cream, let the mixture simmer. This helps it reduce and thicken nicely.
- Mix in the cheese gradually. Stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth and to avoid lumps.
- Adjust seasoning at the end. Taste as you go; you might need a bit more salt or pepper based on your preference.
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Scampi Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the chicken and mixing the sauce, and then about 20 minutes to cook everything, including the pasta. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Take your time to coat them well! Next, dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour so they aren’t too heavy.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot—but not smoking—carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (no pink inside!). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often until it smells really good and fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Cream:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to mix it with the garlic and butter. Then add the heavy cream. Let everything come to a gentle simmer—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes—and you’ll notice it thickening slightly.
5. Incorporate Cheese and Lemon:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the lemon juice. If you like a bit of heat, don’t forget to add the crushed red pepper flakes here! Mix until the cheese is nice and melted, and the sauce is creamy. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Cook the Pasta:
While you’re making the sauce, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions. When it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
7. Combine and Serve:
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing everything well so that the pasta is nicely coated with that delicious sauce.
8. Garnish:
Serve your Scampi Chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your scrumptious homemade meal! You’ve just brought Olive Garden to your kitchen!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spaghetti or linguine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt. For the butter, using a lighter spread or reducing the amount can also help lighten the dish without sacrificing too much flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Sure! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables to add texture and flavor. Just make sure that the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through for the best results!
