We’re excited to share how to make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home. This recipe allows you to enjoy the restaurant’s famous dish on your terms. Featuring tender, perfectly seared chicken tenders draped in a rich, creamy white wine sauce, this dish is simple to create yet impressive. Perfect for any night of the week or to impress friends, let’s uncover the secrets to this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi copycat recipe.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe recreates Olive Garden’s iconic Chicken Scampi at home.
- Juicy chicken tenders are coated in seasoned flour and pan-fried for maximum flavor and texture.
- The creamy white wine sauce is the star, coating the tender angel hair pasta and colorful bell peppers.
- Easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests.
- Customize the protein by using shrimp, scallops, or meatless options like mushrooms or tofu.
What is Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta?
Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is a beloved dish mixing juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and creamy garlic sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a top pick for many.
Colorful Pasta Dish with Creamy Sauce
Tender angel hair pasta forms the base, perfectly capturing the flavors. Crispy chicken, thanks to a light flour coating and pan-frying, pairs with bell peppers and red onion for color and sweetness. A creamy white wine sauce finishes it with a tangy garlic taste.
Popular Menu Item at Olive Garden
Chicken Scampi is a favorite at Olive Garden, combining comforting Italian tastes with a delicious sauce.
Why Make the Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat Recipe at Home?
Making this dish at home saves money and offers a fun family activity. You can enjoy a restaurant favorite without the high cost and adjust the recipe to your liking. Add more veggies or change the seasoning to suit your family’s taste.
Ingredients to Make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe
To recreate this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Tenders or Boneless Breasts: Easy to cook with, providing a rich and tasty base.
- Angel Hair Pasta: Thin strands perfect for holding the sauce and chicken.
- Bell Peppers and Red Onion: For color and taste.
- White Wine and Chicken Broth: For a unique, tangy, and savory flavor.
- Heavy Cream: To thicken the sauce and add a creamy, indulgent texture.
Tips for the Best Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
Use Chicken Tenders for Convenience
Chicken tenders require no extra cutting and cook quickly. While you could use boneless, skinless chicken, tenders are best for their ease and speed.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook the angel hair pasta to al dente. Overcooked pasta can ruin the dish’s texture. Follow the package cooking time closely and check the pasta a bit early.
Serving and Garnishing Olive Garden Copycat Recipe for Chicken Scampi
Serving
Serve by placing the pasta and sauce on a plate, topping it with golden-brown chicken tenders. Ensure each serving gets a bit of everything.
Garnishing
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and parsley for added color and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing
Store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating
To reheat, combine the pasta and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Separate storage prevents pasta from getting soggy and sauce from drying out.
- Reheat leftovers in a skillet for a fresh taste.
Taking My Chicken Scampi To Go!
This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe allows you to make a popular restaurant dish at home. Featuring tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce, the homemade version captures the taste of the original. Perfect for saving money or enjoying a special meal at home, this recipe is a delightful addition to your kitchen.
Best Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tbsp olive oil divided
Vegetables:
- 1/2 green bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 red onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Sauce:
- 3/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
Pasta:
- 1 lb angel hair pasta
Garnish:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station with flour, salt, and pepper in one bowl, and milk in another.
- Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, dip in milk, then dredge again in the flour mixture.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté the bell peppers, red onion, and garlic until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve the pasta mixture topped with the cooked chicken. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Notes
- You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs as an alternative to chicken tenders.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute chicken broth for white wine.
