Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe: 5 Easy Steps

Making Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Recreating the beloved Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home is far simpler than you might imagine. This dish, a flavorful alternative to traditional scampi made with shrimp, centers around succulent chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions, all coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce and served over pasta. The beauty of a homemade version lies in controlling the freshness of ingredients and tailoring the flavors to your preference, ensuring a restaurant-quality experience right at your dining table. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy classic Italian-American flavors, reminiscent of those found in Italian-American cuisine, without having to leave your house.

What makes this recipe easy?

This chicken scampi recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Its ease comes from several factors: using readily available simple ingredients, straightforward cooking steps, and minimal complex techniques. The process involves basic sautéing and simmering, making it accessible even for novice cooks. You won’t need any specialized equipment, just standard kitchen tools like a large skillet and a pot for pasta. Prep time is kept to a minimum by slicing chicken and vegetables efficiently, and the sauce comes together quickly, allowing you to have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour. This efficiency makes it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal.

Why make it at home?

Making chicken scampi at home offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it allows for complete control over the quality and freshness of your ingredients. You can opt for organic chicken, fresh bell peppers, and high-quality pasta, ensuring the best possible taste and nutritional value. Secondly, it’s often more cost-effective than dining out, providing a budget-friendly way to enjoy a favorite meal. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, there’s immense satisfaction in preparing a delicious, homemade comfort food for your family or friends. It’s a chance to experiment, adjust spice levels, or even add your personal touch. Plus, you can easily scale the recipe to fit your serving needs, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a larger family gathering. For more inspiring dinner recipes, check out our collection.

Your Chicken Scampi Ingredient List

Crafting the perfect Olive Garden-style chicken scampi relies on a thoughtful selection of both fresh produce and pantry staples. The combination of these items creates the signature creamy texture and savory, garlic-infused flavor that makes this dish so appealing. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready before you begin cooking, also known as mise en place, will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, especially when working with quick-cooking components like chicken and pasta.

All fresh items needed

For the freshest flavor, you’ll want to gather some vibrant produce. This includes fresh chicken breast, cut into thin slices or bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even distribution throughout the dish. You’ll also need a large bell pepper (often red or yellow for sweetness and color), sliced thinly, and a medium onion, also thinly sliced. Fresh garlic cloves are crucial here; don’t substitute with garlic powder if you can help it, as the fresh cloves provide a much deeper, more aromatic base for the sauce. A handful of fresh parsley is perfect for a final flourish and a touch of herbaceousness.

Key flavor builders

Beyond the fresh items, the pantry staples are what build the creamy, savory foundation of your chicken scampi. Olive oil is essential for sautéing and adding a rich undertone. Chicken broth or chicken stock forms the liquid base of the sauce, providing depth. Heavy cream is a non-negotiable for achieving that luscious, thick, and creamy sauce consistency. Dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, adds a layer of complexity and acidity; however, if you prefer to cook without alcohol, you can simply use extra chicken broth. Finally, don’t forget the pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, which serves as the perfect vehicle for the rich sauce and tender chicken. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Prep Time for Chicken Scampi

Efficient preparation is key to making this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe truly easy and quick. While the actual cooking process is relatively fast, spending a few minutes upfront to get everything ready will save you time and stress when the heat is on. Think of it as setting yourself up for success, ensuring that each ingredient is ready to be added at precisely the right moment, contributing to a seamless cooking experience and a perfectly balanced final dish. This approach also helps prevent overcooking or undercooking any components.

Quick work before cooking

Start by preparing your chicken: thinly slice the chicken breasts against the grain to ensure tenderness and quick cooking. Next, tackle the vegetables. Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips that will cook down nicely and blend with the pasta. Mince your fresh garlic finely – this will release its potent aroma and flavor into the sauce. If using fresh parsley, chop it and set it aside for garnish. Measure out all your liquids, such as chicken broth, heavy cream, and white wine (if using), into separate bowls. This “mise en place” approach ensures everything is within arm’s reach when you begin cooking, preventing any last-minute scrambling.

Total meal readiness

Once your chicken and vegetables are prepped, and liquids measured, the remaining preparation is minimal. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for your pasta. Having the water ready allows you to cook the pasta simultaneously with the sauce, ensuring both components are fresh and hot when combined. The goal is to coordinate your timing so that the pasta finishes cooking just as your chicken scampi sauce is complete. This synchronization is what makes the meal come together efficiently, providing a fresh, hot, and cohesive dish ready for serving immediately. This careful planning ensures that the total meal readiness is quick and the flavors are at their peak.

Step-by-Step Scampi Cooking

The cooking process for homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is structured to ensure that all components – the pasta, chicken, and rich sauce – come together perfectly at the same time. By following a logical sequence, you can achieve a harmonious dish with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a deeply flavorful sauce. Patience and attention to detail during each step will be rewarded with a truly satisfying meal that rivals your favorite restaurant version, and perhaps even inspires you to try other chicken-based main course dishes.

Start with the pasta first

The first step in cooking your chicken scampi is to get the pasta going. Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add your chosen pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb some of the sauce later. Before draining, reserve about 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is a secret weapon in many Italian dishes, helping to emulsify the sauce and create a silkier, more cohesive texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, perhaps tossing it with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Sautéing aromatics

While the pasta is cooking, you can begin building the flavor base for your sauce. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing them until they begin to soften and become translucent, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This step draws out their natural sweetness and prepares them to absorb the other flavors. Next, add the minced garlic. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter. Sauté for just 30-60 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic foundation is what gives the scampi its distinctive, mouthwatering smell and taste, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients.

Cooking the Chicken Scampi Sauce

The heart of the Olive Garden Chicken Scampi lies in its rich, creamy, and garlic-infused sauce. Building this sauce correctly ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and the texture is perfectly luxurious. This section focuses on developing those layers of taste, from browning the chicken to creating the velvety sauce base, bringing all the elements together for a truly memorable dish. The technique used here is fundamental to many delicious creamy sauces, offering a versatile skill for future culinary endeavors like a crispy parmesan chicken with a rich garlic sauce.

Browning chicken slices

After you’ve sautéed your aromatics, push them to one side of the skillet or temporarily remove them. Add your thinly sliced chicken breast to the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear. Brown the chicken slices evenly on all sides until they are cooked through and no longer pink. This browning step is crucial as it adds a depth of flavor and a pleasing texture to the chicken, preventing it from being bland. Season the chicken lightly with salt and black pepper while it cooks. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any delicious browned bits (fond) in the pan, as these will contribute to the sauce’s richness.

Building creamy sauce base

Return the cooked onions, peppers, and garlic to the center of the skillet. If the pan seems dry, add a tiny bit more olive oil. Pour in the dry white wine (if using) and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, which concentrates its flavor and cooks off the alcohol. Next, stir in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Finally, add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce begins to thicken. This step transforms the liquid base into a rich, creamy sauce. You can now add the cooked chicken back to the pan, letting it warm through and absorb the flavors of the nascent sauce. Ensure the sauce is well-seasoned, adding more salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Pasta and Scampi

The moment of truth in any pasta dish is when all the individual components come together to form a cohesive and flavorful meal. For Olive Garden Chicken Scampi, this means carefully integrating the perfectly cooked pasta with the creamy, savory chicken sauce. This step ensures that every strand of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce, and every bite offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures. The goal is to create a seamless dish where the pasta acts as the perfect vehicle for the rich scampi sauce.

Mixing everything together

Once your creamy chicken scampi sauce is simmering gently and the chicken is warmed through, it’s time to introduce the pasta. Add the drained, cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce, ensuring that every strand is thoroughly coated. This isn’t just about mixing; it’s about allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta, creating a more luxurious mouthfeel.

Final garnish touch

With the pasta and scampi combined, the dish is almost complete. A final garnish not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds a burst of fresh flavor. Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the top. The bright green color contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, and its herbaceous notes provide a lovely counterpoint to the richness of the dish. You can also grate a little fresh Parmesan cheese over each serving for an extra layer of savory, salty goodness. Serve immediately while hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. For more meal inspiration and visual delights, follow our Pinterest account.

Serving Your Chicken Scampi Meal

Presenting your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi thoughtfully can elevate the entire dining experience. While the dish is hearty and complete on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create a more balanced and rounded meal. Consideration of serving sizes also helps in meal planning and ensures everyone gets to enjoy this delicious comfort food without overindulging. This section provides ideas for turning your scampi into a full, satisfying dinner, perfect for any occasion from a casual weeknight to a special gathering.

Best side dish ideas

To complement the rich and creamy chicken scampi, lighter, fresh side dishes work wonderfully. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice, offering a refreshing contrast to the decadent pasta. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is almost a prerequisite; it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Steamed or roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans can also add a touch of freshness and extra vegetables to your plate. Consider a side of roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of acidity and color. These options add balance without overwhelming the main dish.

How many servings?

This recipe for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is typically designed to yield 4-6 generous servings. The exact number can vary depending on portion sizes and what other dishes you’re serving alongside it. If you’re looking for larger, more substantial servings, it might yield closer to 4. For lighter appetites or when paired with multiple side dishes, you could stretch it to 6 servings. If you’re cooking for a smaller group, remember that the leftovers store and reheat well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Adjusting the initial ingredient quantities is easy if you need to scale the recipe up for a larger gathering or down for a single or double portion.

Chicken Scampi Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi can be helpful for meal planning and managing dietary goals. While this dish is a delicious indulgence, being aware of its components allows you to make informed choices. Keep in mind that homemade versions often provide more control over ingredients than restaurant meals, potentially allowing for healthier adjustments. The information provided here is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Per serving details

A typical serving of chicken scampi, made with this recipe, can be substantial in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein. The pasta contributes carbohydrates for energy, and the heavy cream adds a significant amount of fat, particularly saturated fat. Garlic, onions, and bell peppers offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but in smaller quantities relative to the overall dish. While exact figures depend on specific ingredient measurements, you can expect a single serving to range from 600-900 calories, with varying amounts of protein (30-40g), fat (35-60g), and carbs (40-60g). Fiber content will be modest unless whole wheat pasta is used.

Important dietary notes

For those monitoring their diet, it’s important to note the creamy nature of this dish. The heavy cream is a primary contributor to its fat and calorie content. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider the “Lighter Chicken Scampi Choices” section for potential modifications. Individuals with gluten sensitivity should opt for gluten-free pasta. Sodium content can also be managed by using low-sodium chicken broth and being mindful of added salt. While delicious, this chicken scampi is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, perhaps less frequently than lighter, vegetable-heavy meals. Consulting a nutrition app with your specific ingredients can provide a more accurate nutritional analysis.

Tips for Best Chicken Scampi

Achieving restaurant-quality Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home is entirely possible with a few expert tips. These suggestions go beyond the basic instructions, helping you fine-tune flavors, perfect textures, and ensure every batch is as delicious as the last. From personalizing the heat level to mastering professional cooking techniques, these insights will elevate your homemade scampi from good to absolutely outstanding, making it a staple in your dinner rotation. Many of these tips can also be applied to other chicken dishes, such as easy honey garlic chicken.

Adjusting spice level

The classic Olive Garden Chicken Scampi has a mild, savory profile, but you can easily customize its spice level to your preference. For a subtle warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic during the sautéing stage. If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even consider a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished sauce. For an extra kick, a small amount of finely minced fresh chili, like a jalapeño or serrano, can be added with the bell peppers and onions. Always taste as you go to ensure the spice level is to your liking without overpowering the other delicate flavors of the dish.

Pro cooking advice

Several professional tips can significantly enhance your chicken scampi. Firstly, ensure your skillet is hot enough when browning the chicken to achieve a good sear and create that desirable fond for the sauce. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Secondly, use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially garlic, as it’s a star flavor here. Thirdly, always reserve some pasta water. It’s invaluable for adjusting the sauce consistency and helping it adhere to the pasta. Finally, finish the dish by tossing the pasta directly in the sauce rather than serving the sauce over the pasta. This allows the pasta to fully absorb the flavors, creating a more cohesive and delicious meal. For more great recipes and cooking inspiration, check out our updates on Instagram.

Lighter Chicken Scampi Choices

While the traditional Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is a delightful indulgence, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing much of the flavor. By making a few smart ingredient swaps, you can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content, making this creamy garlic pasta dish a more frequent and guilt-free option for your meal rotation. These modifications focus on reducing richness while maintaining the aromatic garlic and savory chicken core of the scampi, proving that healthy eating can still be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

Swaps for less cream

The heavy cream is a major contributor to the dish’s richness and calorie count. To lighten the sauce, you have several options. You can reduce the amount of heavy cream by half and replace the other half with milk (whole, 2%, or even skim, though whole milk will retain more creaminess) or additional chicken broth. Another excellent option is to use Greek yogurt or Neufchâtel cheese (a lighter version of cream cheese) instead of some of the cream. These can add a creamy texture and tang without the extra fat. You might also increase the proportion of reserved pasta water used to thin the sauce, relying more on its starch to create body. Remember to add these lighter alternatives gradually and stir well to avoid curdling, especially with yogurt.

Healthier chicken options

While chicken breast is already a lean protein, there are ways to make your chicken scampi even healthier. Ensure you trim all visible fat from the chicken breast before slicing and cooking. You could also opt for chicken tenderloins, which are naturally leaner and cook even faster. For a vegetarian twist, consider swapping the chicken entirely for mushrooms, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute, turning it into a delicious meat-free scampi. When cooking, use just enough olive oil to sauté the chicken and vegetables, or even use a non-stick spray if you’re seriously minimizing fat intake. These adjustments allow you to enjoy the wonderful flavors of scampi while aligning with your healthier eating goals, similar to how one might adapt a creamy chicken alfredo lasagna rolls recipe for dietary needs.

Storing Chicken Scampi Leftovers

One of the great benefits of making a generous batch of Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is having delicious leftovers for future meals. Proper storage and reheating are crucial to maintain the quality, flavor, and safety of your dish. With creamy pasta dishes, special attention is needed to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and the sauce from separating. Following these guidelines will ensure that your second meal is nearly as enjoyable as the first, making your efforts in the kitchen even more rewarding and efficient for meal planning throughout the week.

How to keep it fresh

To keep your chicken scampi leftovers fresh and safe, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Once cooled, transfer the scampi to an airtight container. This prevents air exposure, which can dry out the pasta and sauce, and helps inhibit bacterial growth. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When freezing, ensure there’s minimal air space in the container to prevent freezer burn. Labeling with the date cooked is always a good practice.

Reheating the right way

Reheating creamy pasta dishes requires a gentle approach to prevent the sauce from breaking or the pasta from becoming rubbery. The best method for reheating chicken scampi is on the stovetop. Transfer the desired portion to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk (or even a little water) to help rehydrate the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Stir gently and frequently until the scampi is heated through. If reheating a frozen portion, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can heat unevenly and often leads to a less desirable texture for creamy pasta, making it mushy or causing the sauce to separate. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Frequently Asked Scampi Questions

Many home cooks have common questions when preparing creamy, flavorful dishes like chicken scampi, especially when aiming to replicate a restaurant favorite. This section addresses some of the most frequently asked queries, offering practical advice and clarifying potential concerns to help you master this recipe. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient substitutions, troubleshooting tips, or variations, these answers aim to provide the confidence and knowledge you need to make your homemade chicken scampi a resounding success. Understanding these aspects can enhance your cooking skills not just for this dish, but for many other pasta and chicken preparations, ensuring consistent and delicious results every time you step into the kitchen. Always remember that cooking is an art, and small adjustments can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your meal.