Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish that brings bold flavors, comforting textures, and vibrant colors all on one plate, then this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe is destined to become your new favorite. It’s a delightful melody of tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and angel hair pasta all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for friends, this dish captures the essence of Italian-American comfort food and is surprisingly simple to whip up. Get ready to dive into this satisfying Olive Garden Chicken Scampi experience that feels both fancy and homey at the same time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken to the fresh veggies and rich sauce components. The combination of simple, fresh elements is what makes the final dish burst with flavor and pleasing textures.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat essential for browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables, adding a subtle fruity note.
• 2 pounds chicken tenders: Tender cuts that cook quickly and remain juicy, perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce flavors.
• 1 cup flour: Used to coat the chicken for a crispy, golden exterior that seals in moisture while cooking.
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brightens the chicken and sauce with classic Mediterranean notes.
• 1 tablespoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish and balances the richness beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and depth.
• 1 pound angel hair pasta: Thin strands perfect for clinging to the creamy scampi sauce without being heavy.
• 1 red bell pepper: Thinly sliced for a splash of sweetness and vibrant red color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper: Adds cheerful yellow tones and a mild fruity flavor.
• 1 green bell pepper: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of other peppers.
• 1 red onion: Thinly sliced to offer a gentle sharpness that softens during sautéing.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Integral to the rich, silky sauce and a comforting base for garlic flavor.
• 5 cloves garlic: Minced finely for that unmistakable punch of warmth and aroma.
• 1½ cups chicken broth: Lends depth and savory richness to the sauce.
• ½ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity; can be substituted with broth if preferred.
• ⅔ cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that hugs every strand of pasta.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for garnishing and delivering a salty, nutty finish.
• Fresh basil and parsley: Chopped finely to add fresh herbal notes and that beautiful green pop on top.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by combining flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a shallow dish. This mixture is your secret to flavorful, crispy chicken. Coat the chicken tenders thoroughly, shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumps. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then pan-fry the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. The goal is to achieve that perfect sear that locks in juices and brings out a savory crust. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep them warm under foil—this ensures they stay tender while you move on to the sauce and veggies.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Prepare the Veggies

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the angel hair pasta just until al dente—it should have a slight bite to hold up in the creamy sauce. Before draining, save one cup of pasta water which will help you adjust the sauce consistency later. Next, give your skillet a quick wipe to remove any leftover brown bits from the chicken, then heat a tablespoon of oil on medium. Toss in the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the red onion and sauté for a few minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness is released.

Step 3: Build the Classic Scampi Sauce

Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet or remove them temporarily. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant and tender—this fragrant base is unbelievably important. Then, pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; this technique, called deglazing, infuses your sauce with tons of flavor. Follow with chicken broth and let the mixture simmer gently for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine Everything

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and salt. Bring the sauce to a light boil, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Lower the heat and add your cooked angel hair pasta, tossing constantly so every strand is coated with that rich, garlicky cream sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired silky consistency. Nestle the cooked chicken pieces on top to warm through and soak up the saucy goodness.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped basil, and parsley over the top. This final touch adds freshness, cheesiness, and color that turns your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi into a stunning, mouthwatering presentation.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Garnishes

Garnishing with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only elevates the presentation but also brightens the flavors beautifully. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the salty tang of Parmesan, while the herbs add a fresh, aromatic finish that balances richness. Don’t be shy to sprinkle extra cheese at the table for an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

While this dish is wonderfully complete on its own, adding a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy scampi perfectly by introducing crunch and acidity. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf is also a classic side that helps soak up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the Olive Garden Chicken Scampi over a bed of sautéed spinach or even creamy polenta instead of pasta. You could also pile the pasta onto individual warm plates, place the chicken over the top, and then drizzle a little extra sauce artistically for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Olive Garden Chicken Scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy, try to store the pasta and chicken together with some of the sauce rather than separately.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately (avoid freezing the pasta as it can become mushy). Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2-3 months for optimal taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from splitting. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid using high heat to keep the texture silky and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is traditional and works beautifully here, fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti would all pair nicely with the creamy scampi sauce and tender chicken.

What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?

If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, simply replace the white wine with extra chicken broth. It will still add flavor and maintain the sauce’s depth.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?

You can, by replacing the chicken with firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms and using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The creamy sauce and veggies will still offer plenty of satisfying flavor.

How can I make the sauce less rich?

To lighten the sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half of it with milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Just keep in mind this will slightly change the texture but still leave you with a tasty meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting and impressive about making Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home. It’s a dish that brings warmth, bright flavors, and a touch of indulgence to any table, no matter the occasion. Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite on hand that feels like a hug in every bite. So don’t wait—grab those ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious feast!

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