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Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe​

Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe

Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce and served over pasta. The sauce is made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon, making it both savory and bright. This recipe allows you to recreate the beloved restaurant favorite in your own kitchen with minimal effort and ingredients, ensuring a comforting and satisfying meal every time.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 8 oz angel hair pasta or pasta of choice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Cooking spoon or spatula
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, letting the mixture come to a simmer. Once simmering, add the Parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the fresh lemon juice to balance the richness of the sauce.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in a large pot according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta once it is al dente, and set aside.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly mixed.
  5. Slice the Chicken and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and add them to the pasta in the skillet. Toss again to combine and ensure the chicken is coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Chicken Variations: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
  • Creaminess: For a richer sauce, add more cream or a splash of chicken broth if you want a lighter version.
  • Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to give the dish extra texture and flavor.
  • Spicy Version: If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Leftovers: Leftover Chicken Scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe​