Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan

Get ready for a dinner that’s bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan is the kind of dish that feels like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant, but guess what? You made it at home. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sauce that’s creamy, cheesy, and kissed with lemon and herbs it’s what dreams are made of. Whether it’s date night, family dinner, or just a treat-yourself evening, this one’s a game-changer. Trust me, your fork won’t rest until the plate’s clean.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works beautifully with any type of pasta, or even served over rice or zoodles.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that deliver restaurant-quality flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal fuss.
Customizable: Add veggies, spice it up, or go heavy on the cheese your call.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan

Here’s what makes this dish such a flavorful success:

Chicken Breast: Lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up all that buttery goodness.
Butter and Olive Oil: The base of our scampi sauce rich, flavorful, and smooth.
Garlic: Lots of it. Because there’s no such thing as too much garlic.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best it adds creaminess and that signature salty bite.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of heat to balance all that savory flavor.
Pasta: Linguine or angel hair work great, but feel free to use your favorite.
Fresh Parsley: A vibrant finish that adds color and a hint of freshness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to round out the flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil for your pasta. Cook according to package instructions and drain, reserving some pasta water.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced or cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add more butter and the garlic. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
Make the Sauce: Add lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and a splash of pasta water. Let it simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.
Bring in the Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine It All: Add the cooked chicken and pasta back to the pan, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen it up.
Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a bit more Parmesan if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate it up while hot and get ready to swoon over that garlicky, cheesy, lemony bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 540

Notes:
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up that amazing sauce
• Steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus
• A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Additional Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture
• Don’t overcook the garlic burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly
• Save some pasta water to help the sauce stick to the noodles
• Want more creaminess? Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and add even more flavor.
2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
   Linguine, angel hair, or spaghetti are great choices but use whatever you love.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It’s best fresh, but you can prep the chicken and sauce a few hours ahead.
4. Is this dish spicy?
   Only mildly. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
5. Can I make it creamy?
   Yes! Just add a splash of cream after the cheese for a richer sauce.
6. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
   You can, but fresh-grated melts better and has superior flavor.
7. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.
8. Is it freezer-friendly?
   Not really the sauce doesn’t freeze well. Best enjoyed fresh.
9. What can I add to bulk it up?
   Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are delicious add-ins.
10. Can I make this without pasta?
    Definitely. Try it over rice, quinoa, or even spiralized veggies.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan is the ultimate weeknight win simple, speedy, and absolutely bursting with flavor. It’s that perfect blend of comfort and elegance, ready to impress but easy enough to make any night of the week. Once you try it, you’ll want to put it on repeat. So go ahead, pour yourself a drink, light a candle, and treat yourself to a little plate of pasta heaven.

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