Easy Chicken Scampi Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that feels a bit fancy but is incredibly simple to make, this Easy Chicken Scampi recipe is your new go-to. Combining tender chicken tenderloins with a luscious garlic, wine, and cream sauce tossed with angel hair pasta, this dish bursts with vibrant colors and rich flavors. Perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances comfort and elegance effortlessly.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This chicken scampi recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses chicken tenderloins (known as mini chicken fillets in the UK), which cook quickly and stay juicy and tender, making the entire dish ready in about 30 minutes. The angel hair pasta cooks in no time and pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky sauce that’s brightened by white wine and softened by cream. The addition of colorful bell peppers and red onion adds a fresh crunch and beautiful presentation. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable to your spice preferences and available ingredients, making it a versatile staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) angel hair pasta
• 1 and ½ pound (650g) chicken tenderloins (mini chicken fillets)
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 red onion, sliced into half-moons
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (choose a halal-certified dry white grape juice or omit if preferred)
• ½ cup (120ml) whipping cream
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated (ensure vegetarian-friendly if preferred)
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

How To Make Easy Chicken Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken tenderloins and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the sliced red onion and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened but still vibrant. Add the crushed garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the dry white wine alternative (or halal-certified grape juice) and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all the flavorful bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the whipping cream and parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the red chili flakes here if you like a little heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining salt as needed.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken tenderloins to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Add the cooked angel hair pasta, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Expert Tips

• For the best texture, don’t overcook the chicken tenderloins; they cook quickly and stay tender when watched carefully.
• Using angel hair pasta keeps the dish light and ensures the sauce clings well to the noodles.
• If you can’t find a halal white wine alternative, use a combination of white grape juice with a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for acidity.
• Don’t skip the reserved pasta water—it’s a great way to adjust sauce consistency and helps the sauce stick to the pasta better.
• Fresh garlic is key for that authentic scampi flavor; avoid garlic powder substitutes for best results.
• Feel free to use a non-dairy cream alternative if you want a lighter or dairy-free version.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
• Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with basil or thyme for a different herbal aroma.
• Cheese Options: Use pecorino romano instead of parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken tenderloins for shrimp or firm tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging and gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent the chicken from drying out and the sauce from separating. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta instead of angel hair?

Absolutely! While angel hair is traditional and cooks quickly, you can use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?

Not necessarily. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute with halal-friendly white grape juice mixed with a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to maintain acidity and depth of flavor.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, use a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream, and opt for a vegan parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs always brighten the dish. You can also substitute with fresh basil or cilantro depending on your flavor preference.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Scampi recipe is a wonderful blend of simplicity and sophistication, delivering a deliciously creamy, garlicky sauce with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a quick yet impressive meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With flexible ingredients and easy techniques, you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right at home!