Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect combination of creamy, buttery goodness, with tender chicken and the option to customize it with your favorite pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that feels indulgent but is easy enough for a weekday meal. Whether you’re a fan of Olive Garden or just looking for a flavorful chicken dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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)
Directions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then dredge them in flour.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer and thicken for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Cook the Pasta: While making the sauce, cook the spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 2-4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare.
Variations
- Chicken Substitutes: You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs, shrimp, or even vegetables for a lighter, vegetarian option.
- Pasta Choices: While spaghetti and linguine are traditional, you can try fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free noodles for variety.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter for a lighter version of this dish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti or linguine with your favorite pasta, like fettuccine or penne.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer longer to reduce and thicken. You can also add a bit more cheese for extra creaminess.
5. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic adds better flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use about 1/8 tsp per clove.
6. Is it okay to add vegetables?
Yes, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would make a great addition.
7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
You can use pre-cooked chicken, but be careful not to overcook it when adding it to the sauce.
8. How long does it take to make this dish?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best to enjoy fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Be aware the sauce might change texture when reheated.
10. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to give it a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Copycat Olive Garden Scampi Chicken recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home. With its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a new family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite pasta or add-ins. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner to impressing guests!
Print
Copycat Olive Garden Scampi Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Copycat Olive Garden Scampi Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts, a savory garlic butter sauce, and your choice of pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this easy recipe brings the restaurant’s rich flavors to your kitchen in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant, and then add chicken broth and cream. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is creamy and cheese is melted.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water, drain, and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Slice chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss pasta in the sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish: Top with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Chicken thighs, shrimp, or vegetables can be used instead of chicken breasts.
- To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for the cream and reduce butter.
- Customize with your favorite pasta or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
